Removed the centre stand,cleaned/degreased/removed surface rust then applied 2 coats Hammerite smoothrite black from aerosol can. Also cleaned return spring and pivot bolts & nuts. Will refit tomorrow once paint has hardened a tad with nice clean grease. Preventive maintenance is the way to go. Also took opportunity to clean up frame,rear suspension pivot area- no rust on my baby!
This is on my list of jobs to do - as you say preventive more than anything, do you have any tips, what to look out for, wisdom on the job? is it best to totally remove rust back down to bare metal or is hammerite best on light non flaking surface rust. Do you first use a primer.
Also I have thought perhaps spraying ACF 50 inside the stand tubes somehow, so now yours is off is there any where that you can gain access so this can be done.
Depends on the extentof corrosion,I guess.The really important section is the curved bridge piece that braces the 2 stand legs. Light surface rust can be removed but if its gone wafer thin or seriously perforated then prob best to get a new section welded in-thats assuming the legs are in good condition and can take a welded joint either side..Warning signs of a weakening stand are increasing difficulty rolling bike onto stand as the legs move out of alignment.
Dont neglect this symptom as the ultimate disaster is when the stand collapses & the bike goes down incurring further(expensive) damage to levers,bodywork etc etc.
While the bolts are out gives you a chance to clean up, also check condition of springs(one inside the other), finally reassembling with fresh grease . Best to fit both ends of spring & then offer up stand to frame-saves hassle trying to stretch spring over locating eyes.
Dont think you will be able to get ACF 50 inside unless you make a small hole. Good luck