Hey guys. I own a 2011 Ford Ranger XLT 4x4. I want to get leaf springs that have a capacity rating that is lower than stock (which is 1,750 lbs.). I want something with a capacity of 1,500 or lower. I can't seem to find any. If you know of any, please let me know.

My alternative that I have been thinking of is as follows, and I'd like to know if it is SAFE and effective. So here goes:
Is it possible to remove the shortest leaf in the leaf spring bundle and still drive on those? It only has three leaves plus the overload leaf. I feel very unsure about this option.
IF NOT can I buy new leaf springs, remove the shortest leaf from those and then add the longest (or mid-size) leaf spring from my old ones to the new ones, thus getting rid of the stiffest leaf and replacing it with a much more flexible leaf?

If either of those solutions are possible, I'm assuming it will affect the height of the rear. I have slightly oversized tires (Cooper Discoverers on a 17" American Racing rim). Would it be better for me to buy spacers for the rear or can I loosen the torsion bars up front and be fine? My inclination is to buy spacer since the tires are fairly well into the wheel wells as is.

PS I cleaned my truck after taking the pictures lol. Don't mind the weird front wheel spacing. The wheels are slightly turned. It has never rubbed before.