I like your thinking for your issue. Have not heard that approach before but whatever works.
What I did was order a factory spec fan clutch, Hayden 2747, to replace the low profile clutch I have just as you commented on. Your spec sheet is very interesting and has my radiator listed for manual transmission. Cost a bundle. Shroud I have forget where it came from but got it to match radiator. My fan 2863215 not sure what the pitch is. Worked hard not to have a clearance issue. Looks like I worked too hard. New clutch should improve things. I could even shim the radiator closer if need be. Seems like everyone else is going the other way. Did not want to connect and fill just to find out I have a cooling issue. Read many a post on cooling troubles. Thanks for all your input and spec sheet.