NHV Damper Removal
 

I was checking out my new (new to me) 2004 Excursion and I noticed this ugly looking item hanging under the tranny cross member. I have seen that many call it a NHV Damper. Question is- can I remove it and if so- how? I am planning on doing some offroad driving in the X and this thing looks like it will get hung up on anything... Thanks in advance for any advice or help!
https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.die...49a828da7b.png

NHV Damper?