DLB wrote:
After I get the rust off I use auto polishing compound and then a good
grade of car wax on the table.



I thought car wax near woodworking was baaaaadddddd. Silicone in the
car type waxes interferes with finishing products.

I don't apply the wax on a regular basis, about once or twice per year.
So there is no significant build up of wax. I have not had a problem
with the wax interfering with the finishes. I have tried to keep wax in
the pores in the surface but not on the surface.

HOWEVER, my principal wood working projects are picture frames where I
alway keep the shinny side up, for the sake of the mitered corners.

Larry wrote:
I have a piece of plywood that fits the top of the saw that is
always on
the saw when ever it is not in use. This seems to prevent rust

I'd be leery of that. Depending on local humidity, moisture could get
trapped under the plywood and make the situation worse instead of better.

I have been doing this for years, and always assumed it worked since it
keeps the humid air from coming in contact with the cool surface of the
table, therefore preventing condensation and any moisture build up.

HOWEVER: My shop is in an unheated attached garage where the furnace
for the house is located.