I added a few pictures of the '73 as it stands now over on photobucket (see above for link). I've made some good progress! Thanks to all of your suggestions, here's what I did.
- ordered Kroil from Brownells!
- ordered a gallon of Rust Release
- applied Kroil, waited, applied it again, waited, applied it again, lather rinse and repeat...
- used the proper magna-tips, slowly, using some light tapping, being very careful
It's pretty much disassembled! Except for the most important part... Why does it have to be these 2 screws!!! The one holding on the access plates is still not out, and the one holding on the lever too. And yes, I have really buggered up those slot heads and I will definitely need to get to a drill press and proceed as you all suggested. But dog gone it, I am close!!!
Looking at the pictures, any further suggestions or recommendations? The stock is really nice, just planning on a light "cleaning" but very light, like not much at all - maybe a nylon brush or something. The patina looks nice. Or... should I refinish? Thoughts?
p.s., haven't made it to the rust-removal stage yet beyond the initial very light Rem Oil and fine steel wool here and there - rust release soaking will come once it's disassembled.
Thanks again, and stay tuned.
-Jason