Wire wheels will wear you out with the amount of force needed to press on it. It will also not take every little bit off. The Steel wool pads on a grinder will make it shine like a mirror the moment you touch down on it.

Once it's mirror shiny, use the mineral spirits and a lint free rag to wipe it clean just before you prime it. Once the primer has set well start coating it with the rubber coat or paint of your choice.