[Elecraft] K2 Thermistor question

[Paul Huff]

The instructions for the PLL thermistor board for the K2 say that the body of 
the thermistor should just touch the board.  It also cautions that the leads are 
fragile and should not be bent "any more than necessary."  Near the body of my 
thermistor the leads have a slight twist (clearly manufactured that way) and are 
coated with a gray covering - possibly a ceramic insulation(?).  As it is, the 
body of my thermistor will sit about 1/16" above the board.  Should I try to 
remove the twist in the leads and this covering so that I really get the body of 
the thermistor in contact with the board?  Any suggestions on how to do this 
without damaging the part?

Thanks in advance for any advice!

73,
Paul - N8XMS