Paint a spring?

[domik60]

I just recived my 89' katana shock from ebay to go on my nice 01'.   there
is a bit of surface rust on the spring itself, but mechanically it's operational.
I don't belive there would be any harm in sanding off the rust, and repainting it.  So I guess i'm asking if this a bad idea, and would a can of
rustoleom paint be good enough?  or should I run it till it's shaZam!, seeing it is an 89' shock with unknown millage and use.

[Rich500]

It would be fine to sand down, and repaint. theres no harm in that. just dont grind it down than paint, get rid of the rust, and get some texture on the surface, and your in business!

[jtenright]

the paint will need to have a flex agent or it will crack