My partner and I recently purchased a 1991 Legend 37.5, including the standard Hunter cradle. The cradle is about 12 years old and has never been painted other than what may have been applied by the cradle manufacturer. The boat and cradle have always (and will continue to be) in the great lakes. The entire cradle is rust coated, although there does not appear to be any structural deterioration. While we are considering sand blasting and painting the cradle after we launch this spring, there is some question whether this is needed. Does anyone have any idea about the need to paint a 12 year old Hunter cradle? If there is a need to paint the cradle, is sand blasting the best way to prep the surface?