I didn't have this issue with the original old suspension fork and my 100mm wheel. I like your idea and might try it, but only after I find that all other options fail. There is always an option to put the old suspension fork back and make the note to myself to get it done right with my next project if it comes to that.

At the moment, my guts tell me to find a good quality used pre-cut QR rigid fork with an alloy steerer and use a handlebar stem riser to get the steerer length I need. Should be cheaper than relacing the wheel and getting a top quality modern fork. Really hope it will work