MYx,
You are exactly right. The end result for some fit owners is to completly remove the RIGHT REAR screw and bracket. I'm not sure how the end of the bumper is secured after the removal but here is a pic of the before and after.
MYx, you seem to have a lot of experience with this issue and you are right about the road conditions in the PI. I'm amazed you are ok with the 215/40/17's. Think you want to try it and tell us if it works?
But the guy that tried did the mods above was happy to get these to fit and carry 5 people in the car again.
D