TrailLex questions?

I have been reading through your TrailLex project and I have to say that it is an impressive transformation.  The question I have for you is about the modification you made to the front strut assembly.  Is the metal of the 5/8" rod that connected the body of the strut to the mounting eye hardened?  In other words, was the piece you had to cut in half hardened steel?  If so, was it just case hardened?  If it is hardened, are you worried about crystallization of the metal from welding to it?  It is hard to tell from the pics, i thought perhaps you welded directly to the mounting eye and the strut body itself, which perhaps were not hardened.  If you could enlighten me with a little more detail about that section of your brilliant project, I would greatly appreciate it.  

That's a damn good question, lets see if one of the others knows the answer, I wasn't around in the TraiLex days.

It also may be a better question for a Lexus or Toyota mechanic, since we probably didn't know or care if it was hardened or not. lol  
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Can i ask what type of mod was done on the strut. I'm currently building a Ford escape to use mainly for camping , fire trails etc but have to stiffen the suspension up. Jantz engineering modded the rear suspension and was able to put on some RS 9000. I'm having problems on how to stiffen the front suspension. My strut length is 16.875, compressed it's 17.750, extended it's 25.000 with a travel of 7.250.
I have found some strut in Taiwan, but am unable to get a list of other brands beside Monroe and KYB. I'm looking to get the front to feel like a OME Ranger 4X4?
Suggestion would be appreciated..