New mast step/base help pointing?

I have an old boat that I've put a lot into making better, but issue that always comes up is I feel I can't point as well as some. The mast step and base are well worn so I'm sure the mast is over rotating. On top of that I have modern rigging so the mast is raked more than the original mast step was designed for. Is it worth a chunk of my tax return to upgrade the mast base and step before the 2016 season?

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Catamaran Racing Association of Michigan - Marketing Officer
USF18 - Social Media Manager

2010 NACRA Infusion
2004 F18 Hobie Tiger - SOLD
Hobie 16 - BREAKPOINT - SOLD

Yes. Especially for the rake and stops. The new ones are much beefier. You will get more power with less mast rotation.

Pointing can be a mind game though. You sheet harder and pinch when you think others are pointing higher. Use leech tell tails for help see when you over sheet. Check the jib / main slot. Clew position and over sheeting on the jib can close the gap. Try not to point high just because the other guy is. You need boat speed to keep the boat from crabbing sideways.

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Matt Miller
Former - Director of Parts and Accessory Sales
Warranty and Technical Support
Hobie Cat USA
(Retired 11/7/2022)