On 22 Nov, 01:15, wrote:

Easy to copper plate the things.

Easy yes, but it will also _encourage_ corrosion. You're using an
acid process (it doesn't work without a splash of conc sulphuric acid
in there too) and this will lead to sub-plating pitting developing,
eventually breaking through.

If you want to copper plate, your easiest approach is often to nickel
plate it first. Try reading the Caswell book for advice.

Avoid Jenolite, as it's too dilute and although it cleans rust, it
also corrodes the steel. Either use glacial phosphoric (hydroponics
shop) or even better, a proprietary deruster with tannins added
(usually opaque white, not clear or pink).

Mostly though, I'd look askance at the quality of your zinc rich
primer. Try Davids 182 for a good one.