I just completed making my new cross-slide screw for the 9 x 20, it's O1 Drill Rod (anealed state), 7\16" Dia x 20 TPI. The thread is 5\8" longer than the stock screw as well. The new cross-slide nut is made from zink-infused key stock.
Given that it fits, it's straight and works great and having only heat treated a couple of things before, I'm concerned about the diameter to length ratio and controlling distortion.
A check of Machinerys pointed me to 'nitriding' so I made a couple of phone calls and the best price I could find in my neck of the woods was about $100.00 CDN including return postage.
Is this a reasonable price? I know I'd have to give the thread another skim to allow for the treatment. Anyone here have experience with this process?
Thanks,
Chazz