Rusty lateral links...problem?

[CulRidr]

I was greasing my bushings the other day when I noticed a certain amount of rust on my lateral links.

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For those who might not know exactly what those are, you have 2 pairs; 2 front and 2 rear, both in the rear suspention. You can see them either on the 5 page of http://protege5.ugly.net/02-14.PDF or in the attached, modified picture from the RB website.
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My question is, how much rust can there be on there before it can weaken this part? Should I take preventative action and remove these parts, strip the rust and repaint them to save future costs of replacing them?
As always, all constructive input is appreciated.

 

[CulRidr]

(bump)...anybody?

 

[njaremka]

most likely just coosmetic rust. i would worry if you start to see big, honkin' rust bits coming off. but, if it really bothers you, you can take them off and paint. just remember to get an alignment after the reinstall.

 

[CulRidr]

Ya, it's starting to worry me. it's not BIG parts coming off, but big enough for me to want to remedy it before it gets worse: I've got a good millimeter of rust starting to flake off... How much does an alignment usually cost? and what type of primer/paint/clearcoat would you recommend me using? I figure it will get a few rocks thrown it's way so I don't want it all chipped up a week after I'm done with it all...

most likely just coosmetic rust. i would worry if you start to see big, honkin' rust bits coming off. but, if it really bothers you, you can take them off and paint. just remember to get an alignment after the reinstall.

 

[njaremka]

sand 'em down good, and see if you can get some rusty metal primer, then hit 'em with a good epoxy paint. (if you can find some) i did that with an old triumph spitfire i had, and in the five years i rode that thing around, the arms looked as good as the day i did it.

 

[CulRidr]

Any possible other type of paint that could work if I don't find any? Or just use a good quality and put a zillion coats? As well, why would I need an alignment if I change it and put it back in if it bolts right back into place? (and also, how much would it cost either way?)

sand 'em down good, and see if you can get some rusty metal primer, then hit 'em with a good epoxy paint. (if you can find some) i did that with an old triumph spitfire i had, and in the five years i rode that thing around, the arms looked as good as the day i did it.