Originally Posted by
FBinNY
In all likelihood, this will lower rather than raise the hardness of what had been a properly heat treated part. Heating in air usually results in loss of carbon at the surface making it less wear resistant.
Reducing flame on a carbon block. The trick is quenching at the right temperature. But you're right- who knows what type of steel was used.
But, if it's wearing out in a couple hundred miles, and it's truly irreplaceable, then a chance of extending its life is better than no chance of extending its life. Nothing ventured, nothing gained.