Yes. and probably a good idea to remove the link parts too. The mast has to be free to swivel in its base and you don't want to lose any loose pieces. When I got my boat (H14), the lug that the pin goes through was broken right off the mast base casting, presumably from leaving the link connected. I made a new 'lug' piece which I clamped to the mast using the sail slot but it could be a very difficult repair for someone who is not an amateur machinist.