putting d300 in xj behind aw4 without an adaptor ring?

[hpi_jeep]

i thought i had read that someone had ground down something and replaced an oil seal, and the 300 mated up to the aw4 without the 7/8" spacer.

also can i just redrill the rear housing on the tranny to "clock" the d300? it seems like if i were to clock it flat the top hole would be at the gusset on the top, could i cut the gusset off, or would it be better to run with one less bolt?

tia

i just cant justify spending ~$250 on a peice of metal.