insulatingmats in the pedestal steering

[sy_imagine]

Sorry, if I didn't find the correct translation - I mean the thing where the steering wheel is fiited on and all the instruments are installed. In trying to figure out why our steering wheel is relatively stiff, we found that the chain has to force its way through several inches of dampening material, which certainly creates some frictional resistance.
The panels may be used for noise insulation. We removed them and heard no difference when running the engine. Are these even stock or a leftover from a previous owner's handiwork?

[Yngmar]

We don't have anything like that on our 40 Ocean. It certainly shouldn't be touching the steering chain, else it strips off all the lubricant.

[sy_imagine]

Thanks for the info.    So we won't replace it.