Remove the bottom step?

[Pomfritz]

So I had some damage to the bottom step of my Kwikee when it came out while moving. I am not sure if I will be able to fix the problem so it doesn't happen again. The replacement steps are more than I want to pay right now. So I am thinking about cutting off the bottom step and using it with only one. This way if it does deploy, it's not riding a few inches off the ground. In looking at my steps there are a few ways to go about this.

I can cut off the bottom step two different ways: You may need to look at your steps to picture what I am saying here...

1. At the vertical supports below the horizontal support that the top step is built on.

2. At the junction on the bottom hortizontal step right after it passes the vertical bracket coming down from the top step.

I prefer 1 as it then removes the complete assembly of the bottom step. however, I'm not sure if part of the bottom step froms part of the support for the top step or if the top step support is independent of whatever is below it. I can't figure out how to tell prior to removing it and seeing what happens. I'm hoping better engineer type minds can advise.