A virtual chassis system includes a plurality of network nodes connected by virtual fabric link (VFLs) that provide a connection for exchange of packets between the network nodes. A network node in the virtual chassis system is operable in a pass thru mode. In pass thru mode, the network node receives packets over a VFL and transparently forwards the packet over another VFL to another network node in the virtual chassis system. However, the network node 110 disables other port interfaces, such as port interfaces connected to external nodes from the virtual chassis system. The network node 110 in pass thru mode is operable to receive management commands over one or more VFLs and can still be managed through management commands.