Striker rod that moves up and down through the mast step

Hi,

I'm currently looking at a pretty old HC16 (has #2325 in France, probably around 1980), the boat is in a pretty good shape for its age except for one weird point, the striker rod.

I forgot to look at the bottom of the mast step but I noticed that the rod was moving up and down, meaning it was not screwed in the mast step.

The current owner told me he always saw the rod like that and when stepping up the mast he pulls the rod down using a strap attached to the trailer.

Is it ok to sail with a boat that has a rod like that or must the rod absolutely be scrwed to the mast step, in which case the mast step will have to be changed.

Thanks for your help.

Sounds like the step is most likely stripped. Not ideal. Probably the mast base is pretty hammered up too. Check the link below for information. This link is part of this website as you will see.

http://2010.archive.hobiecat.com/suppor ... eplace.pdf

Where are you located?

Have the parts you need, will donate to a good home, but you would have to pick them up. I have a complete H16 frame from an 1981 on the side of the house.

I am in Los Angeles - any chance you are near?

_________________
1980 18 foot class A Unicorn catamaran
1977 Super Sunfish (sold)
1979 Hobie (sold)
1983 Hobie 16 Hawiian Sunset (sold)
1981 Hobie 16 Tequilla Sunrise (sold)
2008 Hobie 16 (sold)
2023 Hobie 16
Founding member of the "San Dimas Yacht Club"
John

Thanks for your replies. I ll pass on that hobie and will seek another one.

Unfortunately I'm in France so a littloye far from L.A.