Are bump stops necessary?

[agnes the dog]

I have a 59 Apache with front and rear leafs. This week I took out the first and third leaf springs in the front and left the back alone. Looks great and rides a lot smoother. Unfortunately, now I have a lot less suspension travel in front and the leafs are hitting the bump stops (I think that's what they're called) on larger bumps, mostly on the driver side. It appears that these rubber monsters are about 3" thick. Am I risking anything by cutting them down a little or should I take them out completely? If it's ok to cut them, what's the best way to do it? Sawzall work? Sorry, don't have any pics right now. Can post some up in the morning if that will help.

Thanks,

JJ