Good evening J.
The truck is all original. You are probably right...Not being a smith, unsure of how torch will affect the metal and how much heat will be needed. Machinist friend suggested this evening that a 3 point fixture with hydraulic jack might work. There is a visible bow in the upper section of the shift rod. Since he is willing to fabricate the fixture, will probably try it. Maybe with additional application of heat.. may be the answer.
I have a shop manual, but as is usually the case, I can't find it; even though I have used it in the last month.
Thanks again for input.
