Reply by hhhopks

I use the electr method to remove rust.
I use the standard polishing wax for furniture/wood finish for a smooth glide & to protect the metal.
The japaning is the old paint job which we don’t use anymore (I think). They put that type of paint on and bake it.
A lot of people use engine spray paint from auto store. You can use enamal too. I think it takes longer to harden and may not be as good ???

-- I'll be a woodworker when I grow up. HHHOPKS