New SM-420 shift sticks are available with NO bends, which can then be heated and bent to whatever shape the installation requires. There's no reason an original stick can't be re-bent, but I'd suggest making a template out of stiff wire and doing the bending with the stick in a vise instead of risking burning upholstery, carpet, etc. with the shifter installed. You'll need to get it pretty hot to assure a good, accurate bend.
Jerry
