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I recently purchased a 1972 Sport 13. The previous owner installed swivel seats (see photos). I am inclined to leave them in for when i do take the board out fishing, but I am also going to install a new rear bench seat which will go over the rear swivel bracket for everyday use. Two questions:

1) Is it ok to leave the bench seat brackets installed? I don't want any water intrusion issues. Should I silicon around the base and screws?
2) If i do remove the brackets, what is the best way to repair the holes in the deck - especially since it is textured?

Thanks in advance!