just a hunch...make sure the wiring harness strapped to the frame is not blocking the brace from it's rightful place on the right side....cut the tie straps and move the harness out of the way....let me know

 

I did cut the tie strap. But I will double check that.

 

I tried to use the stays and cinch it up. It didn't work. I really dont want to buy that tool unless I really need to. I will check with my local indy to see if he has one. I wonder what a dealer would charge to do it?

 

Mine was all jacked up and bent so I put my sears jack and a ratchet strap on it tight.Jack the jack a little at a time it will bend easily.Move strap wherever it needs to be bent back.After that just put brace on and tighten up alternating screws.I had to do this twice to get it straight

 

Exactly! Even after you cut the tie strap, the wiring bundle will get in the way of the pan mount and keep it about 1/2" from going up and flush with the pan. You just need to work at it until the brace slips past the harness. It'll go.

 

I was looking at the cross member earlier. I put a straight edge along it and there still is a pretty good bow in the middle of it.