1968 Dart: anyone shorten the outter steering coulmn housing?

1968 Dart 440/4 speed project..
Im converting my auto column shift to 4 speed column ..cutting and filling in the two collars, removing the shift tube. But Im thinking of shorting the outer crush tube housing say 4 inches and reinstalling the end bearing. this would give more engine compartment room. any one done this ...issues? thanks !