Here's a before and after pic after cutting down the lower portion of the hoop by a full inch.
BEFORE
AFTER
If you remove any more material from the flat portion of the bend, then you start encroaching on the curvature and then you can't bolt it together flush. At least I've minimized the verticle movement in the event of a driveline failure. Still not a 100% solution, but given we're dealing with a $25 bolt-in hoop, it's worlds better than what the factory installed.
I'm probably going to take it all out, remove 1/2" from the top hoop (just to tighten it up a little more), then send out all the pieces for a fresh gloss black powder coat. Will probably touch up my frame while I have it all out as well (geez, I'm such a waxer...
)
-Dean