Early (1967) tire carrier alignment

[65swb45]

So, I finally got around to mounting the spare tire carrier on our 1970. Unfortunately, I failed to heed Mark's advice above which I'm only now seeing. The bottom of the carrier is hitting the top of the latch plate, thus preventing the carrier to close all the way and latch. It looks like the entire carrier needs to come up about 1/8". I'm wondering if I take everything apart and add an extra shim (grade 8 washer) to the hinge assembly if that will get me the clearance that I need. Any ideas?
Thanks!

That would certainly be the easiest thing to try Mark.

 

[Green Bean]

That would certainly be the easiest thing to try Mark.

Thanks. I'll give it a try then. I feel pretty stupid for not checking the latch alignment before going full bore on mounting the spare. Live and learn I suppose.