thought i'd share a discovery and give something back. Of course, i'm sure someone has already tried this. i've only tried this on an outer shafts so far.

get 2 pieces of acrylic sheet...3/16" or thicker for rigidity. i cut mine about a 1/4" short of the full length of the shaft, 3.5" and about 5" long. Roll the bent shaft between them. i put them between my hands and rub together for about 30 sec at a time applying steady pressure and watching the gear to make sure it plumb. i've straightened a few like this.

check the yellow pages for a sign company. preferably not a sign shop in a retail shopping center next to starbucks but a shop with manufacturing capabilties...they have tons of the stuff laying around and considering you only need 2 little pieces. i have tons at my shop...if anyone needs some, let me know.

quattro