I just had another look at my truck (yes ran out to the garage as soon as I could) and I realized I missed the bolts at the bottom of the fender! Oops! Once I get those in I'll have a better idea if shims are needed.
I think I'll go forward with the hood today.....I had wanted to wait till I replaced the windshield washer pump and hoses but I'll have to remove the seat again to have space to get that old pump out anyway and I'm not going through that again right now. I'm sure I can do it all with the front end back on. I guess I've have to climb over the grill and engine to reach those
but that's how it goes!
Truckster, if I could get to you I'd help you with reassembly, I should have some experience by then, but it's a long drive to come to you!