If it's a relatively smooth surface, the black 3M nylon abrasive wheels, especially the ones that go in an angle grinder, work wonders... they're like an eraser for rust - just point it, and the rust goes away. For things you can't get one in, the smaller 3m surface prep discs are good. Sand blasting is good for odd shapes, but will leave a very poor surface behind.
--Bushytails