We do this too except all sauces give me a wicked headache from the sugar content.
What I do is toss ribs in, along with chunks of carrot, celery, onion, garlic, potatoes and add enough water to cover them all and then some, seasoning and let it simmer all day. For variety, sometimes I'll toss in a can of whole tomatoes - liquid and all. Or add chicken or beef blln to the water for depth of the flavour. Towards then end - at least 4-6 hrs until done - I will take out my portion of ribs/veggies and remove at least half of the liquid thats left and toss in lots of bbq sauce for whomever else wants it and let cook another hour. If no one wants BBQ sauce - I just leave it and serve the sauce on the side to dip.
The best of both worlds! Mmmmmm.....ribs *drools*