I’m starting the process of changing my steering swivel pin and start out by breaking the screws off for the sending units. I’m sure I could drill and tap them out but my boat has mechanical indicators so I really don’t need them anyways. So curious as to if I don’t replace them do I still need to put a cover over the hinge pins or would it be fine to leave them exposed?

Can be left exposed

ok thanks will do if I can save the rest of it