New mast step and mast base causing problems

Hi all,
I have a 1980 H16 with the original mast (no comp tip) and all the original standing rigging. It has been sitting in the yard for almost 14 years. I bought it in '84 and sailed quite a bit in the 80's, and a few times in the early 90's. I spent quite a bit of time and money this spring and summer fixing it up, however each time I sail something else breaks. The latest failure was the mast base and hinge. While stepping the mast the base started to pull out of the mast and the hinge bent real bad. We actually were able to sail with it like that as the base pushed back into the mast after the boat was rigged and luckily the base stayed put when the mast was lowered. So I removed the base and found that the casting had broken above the rivet holes. I decided to replace both the base and step since the step also had a bit of damage. Installing the new base was a piece of cake (4 rivets instead of 2 now) and thanks to Matt Miller's mast step replacement procedure, replacing the step wasn't too difficult (thanks Matt!).

So here is the issue. With the old configuration, I never paid too much attention to the mast rake, I believe the mast was probably close to completely upright. I never had a problem sailing like this, I don't race, and with the boom being pretty much level, didn't worry too much about the kids getting their heads bonked. Turns were never a problem. I figured I better try raising the mast to make sure everything still works with the new base and step.

With the mast up and the standing rigging set up exactly as before, the mast base is now resting on the ridge on the forward part of the mast step. The mast will not rotate and the ball portion of the base is not even close to touching the plastic bearing resting in the socket of the mast step. So my first impression was that maybe I installed the mast step incorrectly. The new mast step wouldn't line up properly with the crossbar (the lip on the aft edge of the step wouldn't fit over the aft edge of the crossbar). Matt's procedure said this might happen and I did have to file the upper hole in the crossbar quite a bit to get the dolphin striker post to allow the step to fit properly. The fit looks perfect. So I guess the rake needs to be adjusted. Time for new standing rigging? Longer foresay and shorter shrouds? Has anyone else had this issue?

Thanks in advance,
Don

The easiest fix (and one that sounds long overdue) is to replace the standing rigging. You'll have more mast rake and the boat will handle better in higher winds. You'll also have the peace of mind that the rig's not going to fall down because of an old broken wire.

The second fix is to cut down the mast step stop so the mast base fits into it with the rake that you have. You'll need to do this if you want to keep the more upright rake that you have. Aluminum is very easy to work with - you can use carbide-tipped wood working tools on it. Remember to measure twice and cut once. You want to cut them down just enough.

Thanks, and I agree with you that it is time to replace the rigging. I was hoping to do that this winter as the budget allows.

Last night I tried shortening the shrouds by moving the cable down from the second hole in the shroud adjuster to the 5th hole. I was able to do this on one side but the other side would only go down as far as the 4th hole before the forestay became too tight (it is on the top hole of its adjuster). Still had the interference problem with the base/step. Looks like I would have to shave off about 3/16 of an inch or so from the step to clear. Do you think that is too much? I don't want to ruin the brand new step.

With regard to new standing rigging, is everything a different length now compared to what I have? I usually order parts from Murray's, would it be best to order hobie rigging instead? Thanks again for your suggestions MBounds, I really appreciate it.

Don

Don from Montrose, CA - Sorry to hear about your problems with mast step and mast base replacement. I recently had mine replaced by our Hobie Dealer in San Diego on my 1979 H16. The stops (mast rotation) were worn badly. I briefly considered doing this job myself, but quickly realized that this is one of those tasks that are better left to someone who has done this many times before. It cost more (labor charges), but he also checked everything else out (safety check). It was money well spent.
The rigging is different than what you now have. Hobie made changes years ago - longer forestay & shorter shrouds. Murrays will make your rigging any length you wish.
I really think you should bring your boat to a dealer and have him advise you or make the necessary adjustments himself. You need someone with knowledge and experience to help you out and get you back on the water. Installing and adjusting a new mast base is not one of those simple projects that anyone can do themselves on an older boat.
Best of luck to you, Don.
Rich

Hi Rich,

I think a visit to a dealer is a great idea, unfortunately none are still around locally. I bought the boat at a place called windy sails in the san fernando valley back in 84 and used them for years until they finally closed sometime in the 90's. I now buy parts mail order from Murrays which works out well as the shipment usually arrives the next day. But I agree with you, there's nothing like being able to bring the whole thing to an expert for advice/parts. According to the hobie website, the closest dealer to me is probably the one you go to (fast lane sailing center) in san diego. Just too far for me to drive.

This morning I got my courage up and filed down the mast step about 1/8", (thanks for the suggestion MBounds) adjusted the shroud cables down one hole on the shroud adjuster and added a clevis to the top of the forestay adjuster for a little more length. Mast went up, jib went up, no more interference. Looks like about 1/8" clearance between the base and step. So we get to sail tomorrow! Will be purchasing new standing rigging this winter for sure.

Thanks for your help Rich,
Don

I am going to be in Long Beach for the F18 NAs from the 8- the 12th. If your boat is mobile, bring it down to ABYC and I'll be happy to take a look. Call cell: 831.359.5918

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Thanks so much for your offer. We actually took the boat out to castaic on monday and had a good day. Mast, rigging etc., seem to work fine. However, we thought we might come down to long beach on saturday the 12th just to check out the race. Could you recommend a good location to see the action?

Thanks again,
Don