Bent tiller arm

Goose grease is dangerous.
Back in the summer, wheeling my H16 down the ramp, I slipped on the grease and the boat took off without me.
The starboard rudder hit part of the dock, causing a slight bend in the tiller arm.
The boat is perfectly sailable, but I don't like the mis-alignment (front end is canted down).

How difficult might it be to straighten?
I've heard anodizing is a 'hard' layer, vs. a 'softer' layer underneath, so any movement might cause cracking.
Hints? Suggestions?
Should I remove all the fittings before trying anything, and work purely on the tube?

_________________
2015 H16, with spin,
SOLD 1989 Hobie SX18 Sail # 1947 "In Theory..."
'Only two things are infinite, the universe, and human stupidity. But I'm not sure about the former.'

I would put it in a bench vice, padded with some cardboard or wood strips, then try bending it back straight (or straighter). Wouldn’t be too concerned about the anodize, but if you kink the tube, you’re done. Maybe see if you can locate the same size bare 6061-T6 tube somewhere online first, just so you know what you’re in for if you damage the original. Otherwise it looks like it’ll cost you about $100 to replace the tube from Hobie (that’s assuming you can even get it).

sm

Will try today, and will keep you posted.

As always, TY

_________________
2015 H16, with spin,
SOLD 1989 Hobie SX18 Sail # 1947 "In Theory..."
'Only two things are infinite, the universe, and human stupidity. But I'm not sure about the former.'

Worked like a dream, TY.
We drilled out the rivets and removed the rudder casting, so it would not get in the way.
Piece of cardboard in a vice, all good.
Now to re-rivet and re-assembly....and wait for Spring to test it out.

_________________
2015 H16, with spin,
SOLD 1989 Hobie SX18 Sail # 1947 "In Theory..."
'Only two things are infinite, the universe, and human stupidity. But I'm not sure about the former.'