Opinions on Removing Stock Xmission Cross Member without adding additional stiffening

Hi All,
I am in the final stages of acquiring an AOD transmission to install in my '55 F-100 (1968 302, mild cam & C4 Xmissioni). I currently have the original crossmember in place to provide strength, and a bolt-in transmission crossmember under the C4. There is no way I can shoe-horn the AOD in, and will be removing the old member. I am wondering if others out there have cut it out & not installed any additional stiffening? I am currently considering going that route, and am wondering if there are any horror stories out there that I need to be aware of. Thanks in advance for your thoughts & responses.
Regards,
Jon