Hi Crusader
The late model spoilers were just plastic. They mounted to the body at the corners and were hung from tabs on the bottom of the grill to support the center.
Once the tabs broke off the grill the spoiler would begin to sag. So be sure not to hit that snapping turtle the size of a sewer lid that is crossing the road. I did, the turtle came out of that battle better than my spoiler.
Here is an old thread where a few fixes for droopy spoiler syndrome are covered.
Henk has new replacement grilles. I think they are plastic but THOUGHT he was also making aluminum ones.
http://www.x19partsholland.nl/CATALOGUS/tabid/2470/ProdID/4554/CatID/636/language/en-US/Default.aspx
Hey, technically the 75-78 grille is a 2nd gen. Here is a quick pic (don't mind the cute kiddo)
This is my '82 with 2nd gen grill with the plastic air dam. Since then, I added a steel air dam. The 2nd gen grille has the same cut outs for the bumper shocks.
Please excuse dust and dirt...
This foto lit up the support brace nicely...
Look closely at the lower mounting screws in this foto and note I removed the plastic grille tabs (along with horizontal vane) and the brace is screwed only to the to the spoiler... The spoiler is now free to move without tearing up the grille.
Let me know if you need more explanation... Oh... and ONE last thing about the braces. I have cared for this car since 1983 and I doubt seriously the PO added these braces. I'm fairly sure I was the first one to replace a broken grille in '85 or so... $60 from and aftermarket supplier of OEM parts. I sure wish he was still around. HA!