Mast Base Damage - Getaway

Hi folks,

I've enjoyed learning from this forum as I awaited my new Getaway. I took ownership of it, in 4 boxes and have been putting it together over the past few weeks.

Unfortunately, we had an issue lowering the mast last weekend, and the base popped off of the mast step ball, causing some damage. I've attached photos. We're not quite sure why it popped out, but we think a combination of not aligning the mast (turning sideways) and lowering it from midpoint rather than walking backwards and lowering (created a fulcrum).

From a damage standpoint, the retaining pin bent, there was some surface damage on the mast base, and the ball is scratched. I know I need to acquire a new mast step ball, and mast step pin, but I'm not sure about the mast base itself? I am hoping not, because it does not appear to be in stock anywhere.

Any advice is greatly appreciated. We're pretty embarrassed at this point!

I don't think any of the parts "need" to be replaced. Unless the retainer pin cannot be straightened or fails to retain the ball in the base. The base and ball will function as is.

Your issue was allowing the mast to rotate from the full 90 degrees required as the base intersected the step post in the last few degrees of mast coming down. The threads dug into the base and pried the base off of the ball.

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

Thank you Matt, and for the quick reply. The pin is bent, so will order that and cut the existing one out.