1975 Mark III Starter Drive Gear

Does anyone recommend hardening the gear before refitting - i.e. heating and quenching. I did place in the oven at 500 F for a couple of hours for easy fit of the needle roller bearing however now I am having thoughts on whether I should have quenched . It is meant to be a hardened gear so should be no problem. This is the original drive gear not new and the OD is in spec. Your thoughts anyone ? Thanks

I doubt of if that temperature when quenched will have a any or little affect.