Mast Base replacement - H16

Hi guys
The rivets on my old mast base are dead...which broke the mast base.

Basically, I bought a new base and receive it by mail.

My questions:
1- The new mast base received did not have any hole for "riveting". How difficult it is to drill in the metal ? Any suggestion ?
2- I made a non-successful search to find official documentation on how to change a mast base. Any suggestion?
3- I need to buy a rivet gun. Any suggestion ?

Thanks for everything.

MidnightRider

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Hobie Cat 16 1987
Pringle 16 1979 (sold)
Hobie Cat 14 Turbo (sold)
Subaru Outback 2008 BlackPearl

Midnightrider - You're on the Hobie 16 page. Go BACK one page so that you're on the sailing index page and scroll down to the "HELP WITH REPAIRS" page toward the bottom of the list. Now scroll down to "H16 MAST STEP REPLACEMENT". I believe it's the fourth one down.
Good luck!
Rich

Use a 3/16" bit to drill the new holes. If the existing holes in the mast are wobbled out, drill some new ones. USE STAINLESS RIVETS ONLY!

This may help. Happy sailing!

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J9Af7Q58FRk&NR=1[/youtube]

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Wow, thank you guys for the valuable information.
Have a good season.

MRider

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Hobie Cat 16 1987
Pringle 16 1979 (sold)
Hobie Cat 14 Turbo (sold)
Subaru Outback 2008 BlackPearl