loose mast base

The base cap of my mast is loose. I'm not sure how exactly I'm going to fix it since the rivet hole is elongated. But, can I keep sailing with it like this for a while? I have no idea how long it's been like that. Just happened to notice it. I hope this link workshttps: //photos.app.goo.gl/DXRtX1LbeyJPYZ2BA

Unfortunately I don't have an answer, but after experimenting a bit, this link seemed to work for me:

https://photos.google.com/share/AF1QipPRA5krJZzZIa-EBEjmuedGMNXflGK8KmKfLzHr1qpvwq0nBNql67jrv8KY8xfiNg?key=bDJybFhtN1dya3dhb3lOWW12SjR3Wmt1NDBzTGt3

Hopefully others can see your video now.

The hole in the aluminum extrusion has elongated. Eventually the rivet will tear through when you are stepping the mast causing the bottom of the mast to kick out and the mast to come crashing down - it needs to be repaired.

You can drill out the existing rivet and then potentially enlarge the hole and replace with a larger, 1/4” diameter, rivet. You can also drill some new holes near the existing rivet and add a couple extra rivets. The last resort would be to cut 1/2” or so off the bottom of the mast and drill all new holes in fresh metal. Whatever you do, the base needs to be secure to the extrusion in order to raise and lower the mast safely.

sm