I was replacing the stabilizer links (one rusted through at the bottom of the pin that connects to the lower control arm) and I couldn't notice that my control arms are severely rusted. They don't seem to have any structural damage (yet) but the rust and paint are flaking off. I know that I should probably replace them, but would a good wire brushing and good paint (suggestions?) slow down the corrosion process?

I have used the truck on the beach in North Carolina but that has been several years ago. I live in Virginia, so there is some use of salt in the winter. I guess these factors have contributed to the rusting problem.

Is this a normal occurrence for a 1994 T100, 240,000 miles? The only thing that I have learned recently is to spray down any bolt or nut with BP Blaster about an hour before I turn anything. Because of being in a hurry, I now have a nice set of extraction and thread renewal tools.

TIA