Thanks. I didn't disconnect the wire but did detach the bars. I just placed the bar sideways in the rear bed in as much as the wire would allow. I then used a roto-zip with a 3" metal cutting disc. I cut along the top of the bar (as opposed along the side that attached to the bracket) which enabled me to get a straight edge (rather than a little bit of the curve). It only took about 5min per side. It was a very quick process. I then used a grinding stone attachment on a Dremel to smooth it a bit. Then, I used the steel brush attachment to polish it further. Finally, I used satin black Krylon to paint the edge (wish I could have found grey). I haven't done it yet but I intend to drill one hole in each bracket straight down and attach it with a 1/4" wide, 1" long stainless steel bolt. Then, I'll be ready for the retrax. Thanks again. For anyone else wanting to do this....cutting the brackets is really a piece of cake.