QuickTime T-56 Starter Issues

I'm wrapping up a T56 magnum swap using the QuickTime bellhousing for an LA. Went to fire it up today after many months of work and 'crunch '. The starter is grinding the flywheel bad, it sounds like it's in a bind

Has anyone had starter clearance issues with this bell/combo? Ive read mixed messages about whether you can really even properly shim a mopar starter. There aren't many options when you search for shims. Brewers carries this but no thickness is listed and it's labeled as a seal. Any opinions or similar experience is appreciated. Thanks

Brewer's Performance - Mopar A833 4-Speed Transmission and Component Specialists
Am I correct in assuming you cannot see the starter engagement with the quicktime bell? It is solid with no "ports" right?

That starter seal would move the starter back a bit but not away from the ring gear.

Do you have a spare starter you can throw in to help troubleshoot? I'd also look at the gear on the starter you tried and see if it will tell you what exactly is jamming up. The root of the gear, or the nose, etc.

Good luck!