Can Bend gas tank seam over?

Hi,

My 3" tailpipes and gas tanks are competing to occupy some of the same space, I might have enough room if I bend the seam on the gas tank over, not sure if this would cause any issue with the weld and cause a leak? I know it'll damage the powder coat. I already trimmed the excess metal on the seam off and still need some more room.

Also, if they do end up touching or almost touching, is there a head shield material that I could put on the tank?

Thanks,
Steve