here's a quick diagram. It's probably not the best or safest way but it works..
![Gap :gap:](https://board.marlincrawler.com/Smileys/marlin/gap.gif)
YotaChris, I understand how you bent yours back, but what is going to keep it from bending again?
lol that's a good question! Well, once you have it straightened there are a few ways to gusset the knuckles and axle. I personally was lazy and just left mine un gusseted and haven't had any problems yet but I probably will be gusseting it soon..
![Big Thumb Up :biggthumpup:](https://board.marlincrawler.com/Smileys/marlin/biggthumpup.gif)