Jon Weaver wrote:

I want to harden a piece of steel, and from my school metal work days,
I think that I can simply heat it to red hot and then plung it into
'oil'

Is this the right? If so, what sort of oil should I use.. Are we
talking normal engine oil, or there there a special kind??

As you can tell, I havn't really got a clue what I am talking about,
so any info would be appreciated

Jon


http://www.mcmaster.com/catalog/109/html/1975.html#.
Item 3202K5

Be sure to plunge the part quickly and completely below the surface and
agitate it to avoid a vapor blanket from forming.