if i remove more than recommended from the overall length and then add weights the the bottom rail of the blinds, would they still work properly?

Josh, thank you for your question. The product is tested and warrantied to work with up to the recommended limit of slats removed when adjusting the height. Levolor cannot guaranty that using weights would compensate for the removal of addition slats beyond what is recommended. We would also advise against it since this would void your warranty. - Kimberly