You can modify and work with your code(s) even though you're robot is in the bag, and you can even take out your OPERATOR CONSOLE out (if you have one) to work with on another chassis or whatever. See rules <R27> and <R38> for details.
And no, were not in a similar situation, however it is our intention to modify our robot code up until we get on the field!
On an additional note, a new post on bill's blog states that it is possible the withhold 65lbs now!