I agree, use a product called metal prep,You will get microscopic rust forming hours after you strip it, when you metal prep, it neutralizes the microscopic rust and does keep rust from forming, you should be able to go months before you prime, and when you do prime, use a good 2 part epoxy primer, just run a scuff pad over the metal right before you prime and wash it good with pre-kleano, a good paint job is only as good as the 1st coat!! Good luck, Newbomb