if it's really crusty (which i doubt by the sound of it) then kurust is good, you paint it on the rust and it neutralises it so you can paint over it
but like revolver said, if it's only surface you can just wire brush it back and touch it up
i've got an ashton too and my wheel never seems to be completely in the dropouts either
i like the look of your idea, kind of like a bolt in axle setup
whereabouts in dorset are you, i'm from blandford. wouldn't mind a look at your mod
hey all,
i'm paul from blandford in dorset, i've just gotten back into riding trials after a 5 year break.
i traded my kona stab for an ashton justice which i'm loving, bikes have come on a lot since i last rode!
anyhoo, just thought i'd say hi!