Slamming - and cutting outer fenders

[wayno]

So I'm running an extreme porterbuilt cross member up front and I'm looking to lay frame - even with a 5.5 back space I can't clear the outer fenders so I'm thinking about cutting up the outer fender... I picked up some 3/8 rod to weld in to get it some rigidity after the surgery and provide a mechanism for creating a rounded finished looking lip once I'm done.... so the question is how much can I realistic take out of the top - yes if I had more help I could lay the hood back on and probably get to my answer but given I have a houseful of girls I'm leaning on you guys for help.