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Does anyone know what's going on with this puzzle? I can't see what we're supposed to do to the amended answers. I think the answer to 9d should be MICROWAVES but the grid entry should have 12 letters.
9d. Motorway services' fifth chef originally oversaw changing ovens. (12)
Any hints? Thank you.

Think collective nouns!

Thanks, pecksniff. That occurred to me about one minute before I saw your reply. I've got two of them, struggling to find the rest, but at least i know what's going on now. Thanks.

Are the modified entries actual words? I say this because for 7d, for example, I have TOXIC as the answer to the clue and the letters _ _ P _ NIC for the entry. The only word I can find that fits there is Japonic. A toxic of Japanese?

No, the modified entries are not real words.

I have managed all but three clues and made the necessary adjustments where necessary. Of the three which I still need ( 36a, 41a and 32 d ) two need adjusting and I am becoming increasingly frustrated. Any pointers in the right direction would be welcome.

I don't have the grid in front of me. What are the clues in question ?

36, Think "Pretty Woman" and "Only the Lonely". Answer needs adjusting.

41 Think "ice" as in coldness of personality. "They" could also can, vacuum-seal, salt-cure, etc.

32 An obscure word for pillowcase, but porter, lager, ale are all types of this drink. Needs adjusting.

Many thanks for your help kilgore trout.