Mast base

[RandyandAmy]

I am getting ready to step the mast on our Sanjuan that we purchased last fall. The base plate on our boat has 2 holes, the mast pivot pin hole, as well as a small hole near the front of the plate. The forward hole being about 1/8" diameter. I know it had a pin when i unstepped the mast last fall, but apparently in all my beginner's anxiety of doing it the first time, i misplaced the pin.
My question is the forward pin something that all Sanjuan's have? Or is it something that a previous owner has added? When i read about mast stepping for this boat, i don't see much mentioned about installing the second pin.
Any help is greatly appreciated.

[Krysia Ry]

Ignore it
Bill

[kuriti]

I always pin mine. Not sure how the came stock.

[RandyandAmy]

1/8" or so diameter pin in the front?

[kuriti]

mine is 1/4, i just happen to have it handy. yes, it pins in the front and frankly, looks stock. I was able to find a replacement at Lowe's, so it is cheap insurance.

[RandyandAmy]

Sounds like it's time to head to Lowe's. Thanks for the info.

[gleninst]

Frankly I don't see the point in pinning the forward hole in the mast step. The rear pin provides a pivot for stepping amd unstepping the mast and also keeps the mast stationery in the step channel.

[kuriti]

Wait! I lied. I don't pin the mast forward. Sorry, mental slip. I was out yesterday and had to raise the mast after having trailered it and realized I was thinking of the stern one for some reason when I replied. I have the holes up front, but don't use them. Sorry for the confusion!

[RandyandAmy]

Thanks all for the help. I know mine had a pin in it when i bought the boat, which I had misplaced and was having a hard time finding a 1/8" pin to work. i will now quit stressing about it! I always know I can look to this forum to find the answers.