Replacing mast base

I have to change out my mast base because the casting is busted out where the step link goes, I have the extra part so it shouldn't be a big deal. I believe that I know where to get the rivet sizes.

When I took the old mast head and base off of my old mast there was rubber type tape/gasket around where the casting slides onto the mast.
I’m guessing that this is serves more as sound deadening gasket than water tightening. I’m sure that it provides some water entry prevention but the actual seal is about 6 inches from the top and bottom of the mast right?
I’d like to replace the gasket but I’m guessing that I’ll end up substituting that gasket tape with something different than what Hobie used 30 years ago, I just want to have a good understanding of what it does so that my replacement will work ok.

Thanks

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Cesar (Cez) S.
H16 - "He gone!"

We don't use any type of tape or gasket on the mast base casting. There may have been silicone or someone has done a repair and added it at some point.

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

Yes...there should be foam plugs siliconed in there...near head and base. Doesn't accomplish much to seal base or head

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Jerome Vaughan
Hobie 16

Nice, just what I needed to know, there was a two sided tape or something there. No biggie, glad that I don't have to replace it.

Thanks guys

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Cesar (Cez) S.
H16 - "He gone!"