F18 issues with hotas warthog

[Virus]

Hi,
I have an fssb r3 but also an hotas warthog (fssb side stick, warthog on the center).
I would like to use the f18 grip with the warthog but I have an issue with the locking collar as it is too tall and touches the base.
This causes two issues:

1) The axis are not used fully
2) damage on the warthog base (I am not able to upload the pictures but there are big signs on it)

I tried to don't fully screw the collar and locking with a screw but then the grip easily detach itself and i don't wont risk to damage it or its pins (or the base holes).

So do someone has a solution for that?
Otherwise I will be forced to return the grip

[Virus]

Realsimulator offered me to modify the collar in order to suit my needs.
So I am waiting for tomorrow that my grip will come back from Spain and will be able to be used with Warthog, with extensions and of course with every other base including the fssb.

[Dragon]

I hope you recibe the modify, and its working as you like