Hi Charlie,
I am curious, did the spare LCA prove the other was bent? I just saw this thread but I think the best way to unbend the old LCA would be cutting loose the retainer tab from the top of the bad LCA and then straighten it before you weld it back again. It all depends on how the bushing will align, it must be at 90 degree.
I have a similar issue with my Dart... Looking to the front end of the LCA struts where the rubber bushings are, the left side nut is tightened till the end and the bushing does not look compressed as the one on the right side.
Took all suspension parts off to rebuild it and the LCAs look quite straight.
Still trying to figure it out. I guess after I press the bushing and put back the LCA I will find out if I need to replace it.
Suspension and frame work, cracked LCA, advice welcome