The popular brands like WAAG are direct bolt-on using factory holes under the bumper... not all brushguards are alike.. some cheat and use the tow hook mounting points (bad if you wanted to keep the tow hooks) while others have brackets that bolt on underneath (a more desireable option to most folks)
From WAAG's site:
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<B>Can I keep my tow hooks on my vehicle if I install a WAAG grille guard?</B>
Absolutely, WAAG grille guards are designed to integrate factory tow hooks. The tow hook mounting location is, in most cases, extremely strong, and often WAAG mounts to the same location with brackets engineered to accomodate the tow hooks. However, on some vehicles, such as the Ford Ranger (1998), it is necessary to temporarily remove the hooks to facilitate installation and then the hooks can be reinstalled. On the Ranger, the only provision is that you switch the driver side hook to the passenger side and vice versa. Note: There are a few exceptions in the WAAG line. The Nissan Pathfinder (1995-99) does require removal of the factory hooks as does the Jeep Cherokee(1988-2000).
<B>Your advertisements say "No cutting and No drilling" on your grille guards and side tubes, but is that really the case?</B>
Yes. Our guards and side tube brackets are engineered so to utilize existing factory mounting locations and avoid cutting your front bumper, particularly the front fascia. For example, WAAG uses a innovated