TT bolt replacement?

[MarineSNiper217]

Ok, I did the whole TT lower deal in the front and all, the bolts now only hold the bar up about a 1/4 - 1/2 in, and I want to know,

Can I remove the bolt completly, and add a smaller one so it dosent stick out as low?
Does there have to be a weight the bolt can hold?
Can the bolt be taken out without the bar falling down, and the new one installed (the cover plate is still on)

 

[au01st]

I've had mine removed completely for almost 3 years now and I've not had any problems. I assume you can get a shorter bolt and be fine since mine aren't even there and I'm OK.

BTW, I have a 2001 Sport Trac.