hawkeye picnic basket preservation

[1930artdeco]

Hi All,

I just received a Hawkeye picnic basket, the kind with the metal insert for holding ice. I have two questions:

1) There is some surface rust inside and I would like to get rid of it. I am thinking Phosphoric acid as a converter and sealer with maybe a shot of clear coat to protect the metal.
2) Some of the caning is broken and I would like a way to protect the ends from further damage.

Thanks in advance and I will post pictures when I get a chance.

Mike

 

[1930artdeco]

OK Folks here are the images of my new picnic fridge.

Mike

 

[esteban68]

As its galvanised I'd guess metal polish will remove much of the rust etc as it only looks like light surface rust.....I wouldn't use a rust converter and wouldn't bother sealing it as galvanizing doesnt take paint, varnish very well.
As to the cane I'd just give the whole thing a couple of satin varnish.