4L80E Torque Converter / Flexplate Mating Question

Trying to help a young guy get his truck going. It has a 4L80E transmission.
He replaced the trans, and is bolting things together.
The converter was installed into the trans properly, engaging all shaft splines and the pump. But when he moves the T.C. forward to bolt it to the flexplate, there is still a gap of 3/16" between the lugs on the T.C. and the mating pads on the flexplate. Checked the converter snout and crank pilot hub, they are engaged. Converter rotates freely, it is not binding up. Everything I have been able to find on the web appears to show that there should be a gap of 1/4 to 3/16 inch between the flexplate and converter. This does not make sense to me, it seems like it would cause the plate to crack. My understanding and experience over decades has always been that the converter and flexplate mating points should be touching before the bolts are installed. I will admit to having no previous experience with installing a 4L80E. Dozens of TH400's, TH350's 700R4's, 4L60E's, and Powerglides. All of them the T.C. and plate were mated without flexing the plate.

Any advice or info will be appreciated. Thanks.