Tuck the back bumper. Need advice

[pid]

I'm looking to tuck the rear bumper and eliminate the piece of sheet metal between the bumper and body like in this pic.

I'm curious if anyone has done this, and if so, what did you do to the torque rods that support the tailgate weight? Were you able to modify the torque rod or did you scrap it?

[Irish1941]

I like way you think.
However in that picture, it isn't tucked in. Shield is there, just black. Still has trailer hitch on it which right in the way of moving bumper in.

The bumper bolts right to rear horns so those would need to cut back and then the supports on either side need to be cut down.
Rods can be remade easy enuf with smaller, tighter radius.
Pretty sure bumper will hit 1/4s before you get it the 2" or to be able to lose the gravel shield.
I say measure it out and do it if it will work.

[blazer2007]

that looks like a nice blazer do you have any more pics of it

[pid]

@blazer2007 sorry, found this one on Instagram but don't have any more pics

@Irish1941 you're right. That pic above does have the shield. I believe there is enough clearance for the bumper to be moved against the body. The rods are the part I'm concerned about. I don't want to remove them and risk slamming the gate down. I'm not sure if I can mess with them and retain the rods function.

Here are some pics without the shield. I found these online, so sorry for the poor quality.