Abstract: Compositions and methods of using the compositions in preparing ferrous metal components for subsequent surface electroplating by preparing a solution containing an acid and a sequestering agent, immersing the components and abrading media in the solution, and agitating the components and the abrading media while maintaining the components and the media immersed in the solution. The composition has, by defined weight percents, oxalic acid; a phosphorus sequestering agent; the ratio by weight of oxalic acid to sequestering agent being in a range of from about 0.7:1 to about 0.2:1; a quantity of an ammonifying agent sufficient and effective for adjusting the pH of the solution formed on dissolving the composition in water to a range of from about 3.5 to about 6; a quantity of a surfactant sufficient and effective for accomplishing wetting of the composition; and a quantity of a carrier material in the form of a suspending agent sufficient to make up the remainder of the composition.