mast step

ok I have tride two differend mast bases with a new step link and both are 3/16 from where it needs to be to put the pin in. I have seen a different style of step link looks to be older just wondering ? All my parts are all yr82 according to the hulls. Iwill buy a new base if I new it would fix it. Something so simple!

3/16" sounds like the thickness of a new mast base bushing / bearing. Are you using one?

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Anderson, SC
1987 Hobie 16
Learning to sail.

Yes Ihave used a new bearing and a used one no differance Idid rember the mast came off a 81 if it makes a differance.

Are you putting the mast up or taking it down? Taking it down you need to loosen the shroud wires and push the mast forward a little to line up the holes. With the mast lying on the tramp you shouldn't have any problem jockeying it around enough to line up the holes unless you are trying to install it upside down or backwards. The pin is pretty snug though. Sometimes I just use a skinny screwdriver

The stock pin is pretty snug in there. What I did was sanded down my pin just a little bit, and now it slides in and out pretty easily.

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http://www.GetWetSailing.com It's A Great Day To Sail!

Do the Holes line up? If not that could be the problem. Loosen one shroud may help or the forestay. Many Sailors use a Philips screw Driver. There should be enough play to aline. Is possible to get a picture?
Mikey

Mikey... It's the pin diameter plus the amount of rake used these days. It binds in certain positions. You can remove or insert the pin after tipping the mast back a bit or lifting it in the cup.

We have recently changed the pin back to a smaller diameter to make it work better (like using a smaller gauge screw driver). Now a 3/16" x 2" pin.

Link kits on the shelf have the current setup.

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