Steering Box Rusty

Just noticed today when checking over the car, the steering box and pipes are extremely rusty as is the front panel. I have shown this in a couple of pics and just wondering if I should be concerned. There is a bit of foam loose that is hanging over the steering box and my daughters boyfriend who is a mechanic thinks that possibly water was dripping off this on to the box and pipes. Just wondering if this level of rust on the box and front panel would be acceptable for a 57 plate car. Been concerned about this all day, also had 2 front shocks fitted and rear wheel bearing, again is this normal wear & tear or does it point to a hard off road life. Be grateful for any thoughts from people that know these cars.

nothing looks unusual there

Jimnys are painted with brine it seems! Really bad design that allows mud and water to settle and rot.

For a 57 plate I would say its not acceptable but it maybe surface rust. If you were inclined you maybe able to wire brush it away and protect with non-salt based paints

Thanks for that, my mind is gradually easing. I really like the car and realise it is 6 years old but just want things to be as good as can be. The older I get the more I worry about things,(never thought I'd see that day!)

Suppose if the worst happened I could replace the steering box sometime, but was hoping to try & clean it up and coat it with dirty oil or some such. Was thinking of taking front bumper off and rubbing down and coating front panel, would that be feasible and worth it? Daughters boyfriend suggested sanding rust away and painting it black.

strip the front end & clean rust up a bit & treat with some rust cure stuff then paint it