Yes. You are very correct and I bask in your knowledge ;)

I believe I said it was crystalline.

I agree that the processes go hand in hand, especially for the metal to perform within the intended range of impact and shear loading expected. Quenching too "hard" makes the steel too brittle. I suggested oil as it will yield a tougher product in the first place.
Very few backyard mechanics will be able to perform precision heating and cooling necessary to temper much of anything... best they can do is anneal (remove all tempering) and heat/quench (remove all toughness).

Yes?

I am NOT a professional metalurgist and the training I had in that field was nearly 20 years ago and never applied except to allow me to question whether or not heating something was a good idea!

The water heated the hub "faster?" Still confused by the story a little. Not to worry, however, as I often have mental blocks to complete comprehension (just as the better half!).

Be cool (or tempered),

Mike!