Ex850R;27634 wroteDid they just flat spot it with a wooden mallet or dead blow soft faced hammer? Easy to do but be aware that when you tap a bend on the outside you will open up the radius of said bend somewhat , old pipefitters method ! Should not be any issue at all in this case , don't go too far with the bashing though.
Gently and a bit at a time although staino is very springy and hard to bend.
I believe the exhaust shop heated the area requiring attention with a welder and hit with a blunt tool. Just enough to clear the steering gear, i what your saying with the diameter reduction though.
