Trouble with aftermarket tailgate or handle.

['68 Newtricks]

Hey folks, just hoping for a little help or a sharp eye.

I am running a full aftermarket bed from Classic Industries. (a mix of OER and TriPlus) Today I tried installing the tailgate handle inside the gate. It goes in but doesn't function. When I pull up on the handle, it hits the sheet metal right away. Two things could be wrong.

1) Handle is made wrong. The ratio (or pull arch) is off. It needs to swing out farther before going up.

2) Holes in tailgate for the handle are not down far enough. I think this might be it, but not sure. If the handle was ~3/4" lower, I think the arm of the handle will miss the sheet metal.

I've only got a picture of the holes right now Do they look right? See the one dimple that bleeds into the sheet metal bend? If that was a full dimple, it just might work. Dunno, really bums me out.