Cleaning and Stain Removal - cleaning solid "euro-style" electric stove burner

does anyone have a method of cleaning these things?
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v115/eddieo45/solidburner.jpg
they must be made of cast iron, since they constantly rust. Jenn-Air recommends a product that is a lot like shoe polish--maybe good to use AFTER cleaning off the rust, but it doesn't last long. can I use one of those hard wire grill brushes to scrub off the rust and such?

I think those type burners usually have some kind of protective coating to keep them from rusting. Some harsh cleaners or oxidizers may of removed them. I would try using a neutral pH cleaner that is not a oxidizer. You may want to consult your manufactor or the place you bought it from to inquire further. They shouldnt rust like that. It would defeat the purpose of having it. I have had stoves like that and never had a issue with them even in SC where the humidity is always high.

The use of a solid element dressing helps protect the surface of your solid cooking elements from spotting and maintains the original black matte appearance with regular use.

Wipe elements with vinegar to remove rust. Avoid abrasives. Keep sealed with solid element dressing.

thanks, twelvepole. I'm sure I've exacerbated the rusting by often leaving a freshly washed pot on the stove to dry, but the rusting/flaking is so pervasive, I'm sure that it is the reason Jenn-Air no longer offers this type of burner (nor does any other manufacturer, from what I see in the stores). The dressing (electrol) seems largely cosmetic, like shoe polish. It seems obvious that I should remove all of the flaking and rusting before dressing, but are you saying that scrubbing with one of those metal bristle grill brushes would be a bad thing?

A metal brush would likely scratch the element. If rust is severe, then sand with super fine sandpaper before applying protection. Letting burners to dry while hot is recommended to prevent rust.