I think that's actually a bit against the PR's purpose which is sane and secure handling of root passwords.  4 characters isn't sane.

Maybe it should be it's own issue if the 8 char minimum is too constrictive.  My own opinion would be 8 is too short, and I'd prefer 12 with a complexity requirement. 

Why not install SSH keys in your KS post for your test machines if you want fast access? Or have puppet do it? Or use FreeIPA?