Originally Posted by
Frankfast
No, I drilled right through both existing holes in the bridge. The rear brake had the shorter stud therefore it didn't exit the rear of the bridge which is why I had to drill for the brake nut.......
This suggests to me that the rear caliper is now cocked at an angle to the seat stays. The tube nut would act like a bushing on the front side of the hole but not at the back. So the caliper will assume an angle closer to vertical instead of mounting parallel to the seat stays. This angle is likely what is allowing the caliper to reach down a little more and work for you.
You could get a different fork or you could get some longer reach side pull dual pivot Tektro calipers. If you want to run with fenders the longer reach option would be the best.