Abstract: A method of reforming the end portion and sealing surface of a blow molded plastic container includes directing energy from a non-contact heater onto the annular end portion of the container neck finish so as to heat the end surface to its softening temperature while leaving the remainder of the neck finish relatively unheated. The heated annular end portion of the neck finish is then engaged by an unheated forming tool so as to reform and cool the end sealing surface of the neck finish. Heating and reforming the neck finish end portion in separate steps allows the heating step to be controlled either by intensity of the heat source or dwell time of the container adjacent to the heater. Employing an unheated forming tool reduces the tendency of the container neck finish to stick to the tool.