I have a 90 degree drill so clearance was not a problem.

Nothing new here. Any vehicle with wide fenders has this situation...Porsche 911's, Jeep Wranglers, Cobras, Open wheel roadsters, etc. It is part of having the wide fender look and a vehicle with a wide stable stance. If you look at some of the wide body 911's, they have a protective covering on the front of the rear fenders.
Here's and inexpesive solution to protect the fender paint: Get some "3M Clear Paint Protection film" and stick some on the fenders. You can find it on ebay for about $45 - $50.
FYI: This film works well on door sills, too. You will find it on the door sills of newer Jeep Wranglers.

Bought my oem splash guards, from Lynch Hummer online, for $87, including shipping to MD. Received them a few days after order.
Super simple installation, without removing wheels and with regular drill. Just turn front wheels for the front installation.
I think they finish/add to the look of the black/gray oem steps, as well as protecting against paint chips.

Put the splash guards on this morning. Less than an hour for both, and I was pretty slow and methodical.

Didn't remove the wheels, although if I hadn't found the rubber drill bit that would have been required.

Just kiddin' about the rubber drill bit. I angled the drill a bit on the back and it worked ok, although if you do this and aren't careful the screws will go in at an angle. Remove the rear wheels if you are worried about it.

Superior Blue with adventure and black tube steps, looks pretty good. I'll post pictures after I get a chance to wash it. Darn rain is keeping me inside.