Is OK, for 12-pin tube socket to miss "unused" metal pins?

[rsmiii]

The A4 & A8 metal pins in my "A" 12-pin tube socket fall out.
Nothing is connected to them in the build.

Are "unused" metal pins necessary?
Still okay to plug in a tube/valve?

 

[Thermioniclife]

On a Compactron socket (12 pin) if that pin is unused dont worry about it but having said that there may be an upgrade that might utilize those pins as a connection point for other componants. I would keep them for the future if needed.

 

[Jameson]

We can send you a new socket, Robert. I saw your note earlier about the other replacement part and we'll get that to you soon as well.