I bought an engine mount from the Cozy Girls. It came in nicely sand blasted and rust free. To keep it that way a decided to spray some self etching primer on it.
First I cleaned up a few areas with a scotch brite pad, then acetone wipe, then tack rag. I used Mar Hyde self etching grey primer, which is my favorite. Unfortunately it is getting very expensive! Twenty six bucks was my "good guy" price! I have tried the UPOL primer in a can which is cheaper but I don't think is as good.
Anyway - that primer should hold it a few years! Ultimatley I imagine that it will get powder coated.