Yes LarryW I did the same thing on a 54 Ford too.
You really do not need much heat on the shift Rod just a little heat and some constent pressure. Then take some polish after it cools down and it will shine back up if it is chrome. You might also make some bender bars and bend it cold.
62Blue
Don

62Blue
62Chevy in progress
You've never been lost until you've been lost at Mach3" Paul F Crichmore (Test Pilot)