[Jamie]

Thanks Mike! That's a great idea. Unfortunately, I don't have any ratchet clamps. I've already got a set of woodworking clamps, so I'll be using those instead.

Speaking of clamps... I tried using a clamp to bend the top back down. I got within 1/2" of where I need to be...and began to hear the dreaded sound.... Crrrraacckk! ... so, I released the clamp right away. No damage. Dry clamping worked on the previous GE I restored, but it's not gonna work this time.

That leaves option #2 - water. I need to get this wood wet before I bend it back into shape. The downside to using water is possible delamination of the veneer. That would be a pain in the rear, but it would be repairable, whereas a huge crack is not.

   

Ever shave a radio? .. Same principle here. Hot, wet towel across the face. I'll let it soak for about 15 minutes, then try the clamp again.