When bending a metal tube, kinking it is frequently a problem. I see this mentioned over and over regarding dipstick tubes in header install write-ups. To prevent the tube from kinking, tape off one end, then fill the tube with sand, tamped in really well. Tape the other end. Now you can bend the tube at will, and the sand will keep it from kinking. I use this for all kinds of tubing, up to an inch or more with heat added. Don't bend the same spot too many times without heating it. For tough jobs, get the part red hot first to take out any heat-treat. Don't quench it in water, just let it cool slowly, so it's nice and soft. You can always do a water or oil quench later if you want to re-harden the part.

To make sure no sand remains afterwards, I pre-clean the part real well, and when I'm done I take it to the quarter car wash and blast the heck out of the inside. Then inspect the inside with a bendy light. On a dipstick tube, especially focus on the little raised bead where it seats to the engine block. Obviously, putting sand in any car part requires EXTREME care to not leave one grain behind.

 

Pretty handy trick, thanks for sharing, I am sure i can use this someday.