Abstract: A remotely positionable bending apparatus includes a support platform with a mandrel mounted to a front surface thereof and a bending arm pivotally connected between the mandrel and support platform. The outer end of the bending arm rotates around the upper end of the mandrel to bend a rod into a generally inverted U-shape. A clamping apparatus is operably mounted on the platform adjacent the mandrel and includes an actuator which is operated by movement of the bending arm to clamp and release a detector rod in a retained position against the mandrel. Preferably, the actuator includes a shaft which is placed under a biasing force to urge the shaft into a clamped position, with a pivotable lever connected thereto actuatable to overcome the biasing force and release a detector rod from the clamped position. The actuator lever is located in the pivotal path of the bending arm, such that movement of the bending arm to a retracted position disengages the clamping apparatus from the detector rod.