Originally Posted by
JohnDThompson
Yes, it could, in principle at least. Re-heating isn't likely an issue; that it came apart so easily suggests it never got hot enough in the first place. But it would require thorough cleaning and repainting afterward. Unless it's a high-end frame, it's probably more cost-effective to replace the fork. Chrome plated replacement forks look decent, are reasonable priced and available. Be sure to get an appropriate steer tube length. Match the wheel size (be sure the brakes will reach), and get close to the original fork rake to maintain consistent handling.
The plan for painting these frames is and has been to give the job to a frame shop that has full painting, alignment, frame repair, and frame building capability. We found one and while we need to check on the exact mechanics, I think we have the right resource. I still need to loosen the stem from the head tube in order to pull out the headset cups. So we'll see how hard that all turns out to be.
There is no way I will be brazing the crown back onto the steer tube. While I have some engineering background I don't know the manual arts and crafts necessary, nor even how to light a torch much less use it without burning down the house.