Yamaha 8 shortening handle

[orion]

I bought a new Yamaha 8 for my sailboat and found that the long handle (22in) need to be shortened about 3.5 in. I plan to remove the rubber grip/plastic end and cut the end off about 3.5 inches. This area does not have any cables or springs. I need to do this so it will fit in my storage hatch.

Has anyone done this? See any problem?