Yes Westy, I was aware of those and was thinking that originally before others brought up the possibility that it doesn't look right. My own view on this is "needs further evaluation" and unfortunately I think that requires removing the pedestal head.

I have tried spraying lubricants in there from both sides (using spray cans that have a thin red straw) and no joy. At this point it's just a squeak that's not constant, and I could live with it, but if that squeak is caused by corrosion it needs to be corrected before it becomes a more costly repair, or impedes operation.

My approach about boat maintenance is to try to remedy small issues before they become big issues.