Sony SS-3 / SS-9

We've had previous discussions on this design but my issue remain unresolved. The design is largely cosmetic. The two 6" bass drivers are the same save for the dust caps.
My questions. If you disconnect one of the woofers are you left with a 2-way, passive radiator design?
Two: If you install a genuine 3-way crossover does the mid-range driver still serve duties as a passive radiator?
ss-s9.jpg
 
because if they are both in the same air volume, the woofer excursion would cause the midrange to act like a passive radiator, HOWEVER since it is an actively driven midrange, that motion would be resisted by the actual midrange motor. it creates backcurrent, and heat on the midrange. not to mention possibly causing the midrange to hit ecursion limits.

IF you want to drive both woofers in the same box airspace, go for a 2.5way crossover design.