Thanks for the replies everyone. I removed the plastic cover as suggested and it helped until I had the level kit install. The Ranger is looking nicer now.
Just this week upgraded my XLT to a set of 265/70R17 from stock. I already had some 17 X8.5 25 offset wheels I had put on last year.
Once the new tires were put on, I noticed I'm getting rub at nearly full-full lock on the front crash bars, seemingly worse in reverse.
I'm getting a 2.5in front...