I've got the sideplates resanded. I started with 0000 steel wool, then 1000, 1500, 2000, wet 2000. They've got a nice luster to them. There is still either some oxidation or maybe just 'age' on them tht seems to not want to go away. Before I sand all the way to China, I'm going to stop, polish and wax and likely leave it at that. I'm new to Bakelite so I was under the impression that i could sand/buff/wax these out to a nice, even, consistent shine. I just don't think that's a reality at this point so i'll post them below and you tell me what you think.
All the rust on the reel was surface rust and came off nice and easy when soaked in CLR cleaner. Now there is quite a bit of brass color showing through that was underneath the chrome. Should I just use a metal polish on this prior to reassembly?
Finally, the gear is turning nicely after soaking in gas for a while. I can't get it off the bridge but will just add a drop or two of oil to the shaft as suggested and put some reel grease on the gear and pinion.
Getting close to the end. Thanks for all the help so far!