I agree with Joe.... Work out another solution. Chop/grind/angle grinder/chainsaw/melt it off with your heat vision;however you alter that cladding, and there is no situation that will put it back. I do more resto work than anyone should have to. Nothing (except rust) causes more angst than body work some knucklehead chopped at for some seemingly crazy reason . Lift it a bit. No big deal. Inch an' a half...you are there. I don't know what Andrew Jackson would do if he were a VXer, but I am pretty sure you should do what ever YOU like with your car.