Linkert body repairs

Hello all; Merry Xmas and happy new year.
I have a M-88 body which has been slightly squashed oval shaped, at the air cleaner end.
I think I might be able to straighten it out, but I'm not sure how the metal will react to the localised heat.
Would the metal suddenly become liquid like aluminium, or can it be worked in a (cherry red) plastic like state, and allowed to cool, without introducing any stress cracks.
I'm guessing it would be a specialist repair, and a bit beond my backyard workshop.
Any-one experienced with this type of repair????
Thanks Keith

The M35TP carb I am running on my 46FL was deeply dented on the top side over the venturi. I had to cut the venturi out of it, I made a couple of tapered swedges that I pushed through the carb in my press. I heated the area to around 300 degrees as I pressed the lubricated slugs through the damage. I worked the high spots down with a hammer and some hard plastic ( old credit cards or motel room keycards work good) to protect the outer surface. As I got close, I would run the body over the Sunnen hone to find high and low spots. Not enough to remove metal, just to locate the problem areas. With some patience and time I was able to metal finish the bore to near perfection, without losing more than a few thousandths of bore size. I don't know how far out of round your carb is but the metal is malleable and if you take your time you should be able to save it.

Folks,

I have found that bronze works best cold.

....Cotten

Thanks as always for your good advise. I described the damage as "slightly oval shape". But maybe a bit more than that.
I think it best for me to post a picture of the carb body, when I get the opportunity, and go from there.
Keith