Eadie,
Sorry for the delay. I don't check this board every day. To answer your question, no I don't think the solution can be too strong (within reason). However there's no need to make it as strong as you did. You can see from my experience in the article that I probably erred a little on the dilute side, but had I left it to soak longer, it would have done fine.
And, yes, there's no harm repeating the cautions of working with chemicals. One splash of lye solution in an unprotected eye could have profound effects on your ability to ever see again. But anyone working around engines, electricity and power tools should already be aware of and be practicing "safe soaks."
Before we use any power tools, let's take a moment to talk about shop safety. Be sure to read, understand, and follow all the safety rules that come with your power tools. Knowing how to use your power tools properly will greatly reduce the risk of personal injury. And remember this: there is no more important safety rule than to wear these — safety glasses.
Quinn