Since the pin is subject to severe corrosion due to an anaerobic condition, I wonder if using a better metal or maybe graphite rod that is through bolted be a better solution. I believe that the corrosion starts at the mating verticle surface of the pin and the stainless rudder shaft in which it is inserted. I guess titanium could be a solution, but I'm not sure of the shear strength of it. I used 316 stainless bolts in lieu of the 304 stainless that came with the pintle assembly. I also made sure that the weld was continuous 100% around each bolt head to help prevent water intrusion. My old bolts were pitted pretty bad as well. The more I think about it, the graphite rod isn't a bad solution. If you start off with a new flat bar, drill a hole to recieve a bolt which goes all the way through the graphite pin....mmmmmm. The bolt would have to be highly resistant to corrosion as well and with a good shear strength. Got to be a better mousetrap.....