Cleaning up an axel housing

The axel housing I have has been sitting around a long time on a duster and its been open to the elements for many years. It is caked with mud, rust, and cob webs. The inside doesn't look to bad considering it been sitting open for so long! What would be the best way to clean this up wire wheel on my hand grinder or can I take a sand blaster to it? If blaster is ok to use the only place I would need to protect is where the axel bears seat correct?