As part of the search for solutions I happened upon the McLeod Modular bellhousing ( www.mcleodind.com ) that consists of the bellhousing, spacer plates (which you can shim the 9/16" required) and the cap plate with the T-5 bolt pattern and choke ring. One of the advantages of this system is that you can change the spacer plates and cap plates to install a different transmission. (Ford,Mopar,GM,T-5,T-56, etc.)

'45 Ford PU
66 Valiant wagon, leaning tower of power.
79 Chevy C10 w/250
02 PT Cruiser Convertable