Quoted from Gogojohnnyquack:I've got a Cliffy on mine and have never had it interfere with ball movement. If your hole is really chewed up then Cliffy does recommend rebuilding the hole before installation in order to provide a solid foundation and completely support the protector. The repair doesn't have to be pretty since you will be covering it up.
The Mantis is a really good concept- it's just not 'plug and play' due to a wonky design variant I don't agree with that can be adjusted; with new looking scoops especially it's definitely the way to go - but only with right-side arm adjustment prior to install.
The whole putty bridge I initally tried to build on top of the protector to the playfield- look, I'm not mechanical by nature. If I was, I'd have figured the scoop vibration alone would have toppled that lightning quick. But with Gords help, have now taken what seems to be a more sustainable approach.
With mine, a sample/prototype, want to find a way to make the Mantis work well. The stock cliffy didn't fit, and the original vibe would be nice for my sample if it can be done.