The bracket holds the step in the factory position using only factory holes. For this test-fit, the front & rear of the fiberglass are not attached to the truck - the step is only attached to the bracket by the center stud. It's almost as solid this way as when using the long studs. From this low angle, the bracket is barely visible; no moreso than the factory bracket would be.
The factory bracket without anything attached weighs ~5lbs; mine weighs ~13 lbs.
Note the extra body line at the bottom of the door indicating this is a revised door with a side impact beam.
See also:
http://www.thedieselstop.com/faq/9497faq/tsb/tsb/95-08-06.php3 
