First thing I would do is remove the striker. Then get the door aligned with the quarter and rocker panels. Get those gaps correct, and panels flush with each other. Then reinstall the striker. As you are closing the door, look at how the latch and striker are lined up. Get the striker centered in the latch opening vertically before you ever close the door. If it is not centered it will pull the door up or down accordingly. You don't want to rely on the striker to correct alignment issues. After the striker is centered, close the door and adjust the striker in/out to get the door to latch flush with 1/4.
As far as that tool from Eastwood, you don't need it. The only way you would need it is if you had welded on hinges and a non adjustable striker, like some newer vehicles have. The tool is used to BEND the hinges up or down depending on what needs done to correct door alignment.
This is from a bodyman of 12yrs.
Good Luck,
Joe
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