To true up the front sheetmetal I recommend a slightly different sequence:
Fit the fenders, running boards, headlight bar first. Then shape the fender brackets to fit the now visually correct fender. This is especially true with reproduction brackets. Brackets should touch the fenders only at the headlight bar mount and outside fender mount, anywhere else will cause rubbing and eventual cracking or other damage to the fender.
True Ford forged brackets are unlikely to crack. There are however, some cast iron reproductions from the 1970's around which will break if you look at them crosswise. If you break one of those fitting up the car be happy you did as otherwise it would break ON the car.