Tow hooks

So I went to install my Staangs fab tow hook brackets on my XJ(same brackets on my last 98 XJ) and I noticed an issue... my bumper bracket doesnt fit into the hook bracket.

I have a 94 XJ COUNTRY model now, not sure if that makes a difference. not really sure how to fix that. lol

I can cut off the bottom portion thats blocking it but then my bumper will only be attached at the top and would wave around I imagine.

Any ideas? Also does anyone happen to have a drill press I could borrow...

I'm not 100% certain but I think the 97+ and 87-96 bumper assembly mounts are different. Does the bracket you are using come in two different versions?

looks like you should be able to notch your bumper mount to fit the tow hook.

It only comes in the one format, Eric the owner of Staangs has a 96 and it fit perfectly, it also fit on a friends 94, same year as mine. I assume its the country model having some sort of different mount for whatever reason. But I decided I'm just going to leave the bumper off, put the plates in place then head home and just get a 5 foot long section of 2x4x1/4" steel tubing and just make a front bumper. Eric was nice enough to credit me back most of what I paid for it so total I could build a bumper for about 100$ including cost of brackets. Assuming steel hasnt changed much in price since last time I was there. lol