[codefox1]

Can't tell what shape the tube sockets are in, but you should consider dealing with them first if you are not going to knock out the rivits and remove them. If ok after cleaning up, mask well before painting chassis. If below is nasty, and you want it to look nice, not a lot of alternatives but to drill out sockets, etc... and then you have a piece of metal to refinish as you wish. We've all done it 100 ways or more. Best answer is having a nice set in the end that works and pleases you. More questions will get more answers. Very Best!