Quick 30 pickup front fender question

[metalho]

The 30 pickup calls for the front fender to be mounted under the rubber pad of the radiator bracket in the recessed cross member. If I mount it this way it will bend the fender when I tighten the spring back down. Couldn't I mount the fender ON TOP of the radiator bracket with a washer and or another rubber pad. This way I wont crack my paint.