mast step with broken pin holder

Is it dangerous to sail in light winds with a mast step that has a broken pin holder? Ive ordered a replacement step together with the hinge kit and rivets but don't think they'll arrive in time before vacation. Hard to replace?

Which model boat? Likely not an issue once the mast is up, so just be cautious. Using a line tied to the mast at the base and to the crossbar as a safety if the hinge fails while stepping is a good idea.

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

Thank you - its an older H16. I have a replacement mast step but its not drilled out. Basically the mast hinge link can only be pinned on one side of the step. Now I'm learning that the hinge gets removed once the mast is raised and doesn't go back on until you need to lower it? Is that correct? I'm supposed to remove the mast step link when going out?

Thank you again!

Yes, the link is disconnected allowing the mast to rotate. You can remove it or just disconnect. If broken, You can tie a line to the mast at the bottom and tie it to the front crossbar for stepping up or down. You would need someone to direct the mast base into the cup as the mast goes up... Once up... the link is not needed at all.

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

Thank you so much - still learning the "ropes"

The tiny pins that came with the mast step link from Hobie can quickly end up bending the step link and causing a mismatch as the base of the mast centers on the cup on the crossbar. I replaced the 3/16" pins with 1/4" Ball-Lok Quick-Release Pins (West Marine link). The two pins are much longer than you would use on the side stay, for instance. I don't remember what length they were, but 2 inches comes to mind. I drilled a hole in each of the bells to run a lanyard between them, so I didn't lose the pin(s) in the sand. They're a little expensive, but they won't ruin your retirement. Besides if you wanted to save money you wouldn't have bought a boat.