My new cam has a small amount of surface rust and I mean small amount. how do i get that off without messing up the cam?

Just a guess, but maybe brake cleaner and a toothbrush?

I dont really know. I didnt wanna do anything abrasive unless I was positive it would be ok like steel wool or anything. Maybe just some lacquer or like you say some brake cleaner

I always use a fine scotchbrite pad (white) and some carb cleaner.

Use WD40 and a fine scotchbrite pad. Cleans up nicely and will not harm the cam. I recently did this on my last cam swap. Works great!

white scotchbrite? I have never seen that

go to a hardware store, or a auto parts store that sells paint.

Thanks guys! I will be doing this tomorrow night

Just in case you get there and dont really know, white scotch brite is finer then gray and red scotch brite. I use white scotchh brite to fine polish anything from metal to acrylic countertops.....

Just clean it good afterwards, the Scotchbrite will leave small pieces behind when you use it. Give it a good flush with brake cleaner including the hole down the center if there is one then coat with oil.

I wonder if never dull would work?..