I am considering getting a pair of GSL-SE rotors. They look to be in good shape, however, there is a light surface rust on them. I was thinking of cleaning them with a rust removing cleaner/acid. Any ideas on how I should do this without damaging them? What products/materials should I use?

 

If its just light surface rust just use a wire brush, coarse scuff pad, or a medium sandpaper.

I use these on my angle grinder for stuff like that.
3M US: Roloc Bristle Disc

 

Naval Jelly.

 

as long as it's light rust, just use some 220 and 400 wet/dry sandpaper in kerosene or diesel.

 

Engine rotors or brake rotors?

Engine rotors, wire brush. No chemicals. Any chemicals that can attack rust will usually also attack the bearing, don't want to risk doing that.

Brake rotors, just put them on the car. "Light surface rust" is what happens if it rains.-

 

If you're using Naval Jelly right, it doesn't get on the bearings. You're supposed to brush it on, wait, then rinse - -- not soak the whole part in it.

 

Engine rotors. They are in good shape, just a light coating of rust.

 

Wire brush, not a stiff one but a meduim style brush.

 

I picked up these bad boys earlier this week.
This is the first time having some rotors in my hands that aren't destroyed or that have been prettied up. I don't know if they are usable or if they belong on a shelf, they look fine to me. There isn't any damage just some rust.
I did some internet searching and came across the Pineapple Racing rebuild video. They showed putting a steel wheel to the sides of the rotors and then using a brass brush for the faces.
Should I show these rotors the same process?
I understand the process but I didn't catch what the size or grit the wheel was, does anyone know what is the best grit size to use?
Also how do you clean all the small recesses without the seals like Pineapple shows?

 

Tin foil.

 

those rotors are actually fine as is, but they would clean up with sand paper...

 

Yeah, even fine steel wool would deal with that.