I went ahead and removed four washers from the forward side of the spinner backing plate assembly (one from each clamp bolts). I checked for clearance all around the backing plate assembly and hub. The closest interference point (and there is still 1/32" ) is between the blades and backing plate at full pitch. Now the spinner fits all the way back on the backing plate flange as it should. I used countersunk screws and reinforcment washers. I still have about 1/4" material left on the aft edge of the spinner before the beginning of the countersink for the washers.
I was surprised that the spinner assembly took over 20 hrs to accomplish. I just primed the gap filler plates and still have to rivet them in.
Now is a good time for someone to point out why I should not have removed these four washers ( job is complete). Hartzell's manual says no more than three washers are allowed in this location but does not address any fewer. It would seem that if fewer, were a problem they would have included this in with there instructions.
Ron