mast rotation & step link

I have searched threads before and the concenous seemed to be to leave the pin in the step link while sailing. I have always done this. Earlier this year I put a new step link on, and then bent the bajebus out of it when I dropped the mast. Since then the step link has completely sheared. The mast now rotates a lot, all the way to the stops. Is that too much rotation? Can the mast rotate adequately with the pin in?
Thanks for your help.

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Alfred
'87 H16 Sail 89907
If you aren't sailing on the edge, you're taking up too much room.

You should ALWAYS remove the pin while sailing. The pin should be inserted in the link only for raising and lowering the mast. You want your mast to rotate while sailing.

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'88 Nationals Blue
Hobie Alter Signature Model
Sail #11

Hobie Mirage Classic

I don't even leave the mast step link in when sailing.

Last time I was out I smashed up the step link. Could be the old mast/base with a bit more rake than usual? Looks like I'll be removing it also.

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'00 H16 #104691
'78 H16 #32692 ex-rental [gone]
Old Holsclaw trailer
My Hobie 16 pages