repairing tension tool: should I harden it?

[pillar]

I broke one of my tension tools.
shape like this:
http://cdn.instructables.com/FSJ/1BMX/F ... .LARGE.jpg

But bent on both sides, one broken.

I will repair this tool, I will use a gas torch to bring the steel to red glow, then bend it accordingly.

After successful bending, should I harden the tool?
I would then heat it red glowing again, and put it under water.

Should I do this?

[kwoswalt99-]

If the tool broke before definitely do not harden it. Let it cool slowly after you bend it. What type of steel are you using?

[cuttinedge1]

Do harden it but don't dip it in water rather dip it in old motor oil (have a fire extinguisher or flour and do it outside) as this will cool it slightly slower and impart some extra carbon. After quenching in the the oil temper it in an oven at 350 for 2 hours then let cool. If you simply let it cool to room temperature it may be so playable that after you pick a lock you wont be able to turn the plug all the way. Also when you heat it, heat it until it becomes non magnetic and then quench it as this will relieve the stresses completely but not overheat the metal.

[bembel]

Throw away broken tool. Get windshield wiper insert and bend a new one.
Heating or hardening isn't needed.

[cuttinedge1]

Throw away broken tool. Get windshield wiper insert and bend a new one.
Heating or hardening isn't needed.

Usually I would agree with you. If wiper blade works for the lock then just make a new one. I find that some tension wrenches just work great with particular locks and are actually work fixing so I just gave him the way to do it right.

[stainless steel]

Throw away broken tool. Get windshield wiper insert and bend a new one.
Heating or hardening isn't needed.

Usually I would agree with you. If wiper blade works for the lock then just make a new one. I find that some tension wrenches just work great with particular locks and are actually work fixing so I just gave him the way to do it right.

Thats wy you dont buy the tension wrenches an instead make your own and if you break it you can make a new one

[pillar]

Unfortunately I do not have a dremel required to make a tension tool my own.
It would make things a lot easier but moneys.....

[stainless steel]

Unfortunately I do not have a dremel required to make a tension tool my own.
It would make things a lot easier but moneys.....

You dont need a dremel i have one but i dont use it

[bembel]

All you need for making them is a pair of pliers. Bend the steel hard and it will break. Then bend an "L" and, if you like, add a twist using a vise or a second pair of pliers. Takes only 30 seconds, no dremel required.