Difficulty inserting and removing the mast pin

[Tim_M]

Hi everyone. Ever since I got my boat I've had a terrible time inserting, and especially removing the mast base pin. Am I doing something wrong? Is there a trick to it?

Thanks!

[kuriti]

Mine is always a pain, but doable. Obvious advice would be alignment. My little tabs are slightly bent up, but I don't think it would be hard to get them completely out of whack accidentally. Maybe put a piece of wood of the appropriate size in between the holes and beat them back to square?

[Tim_M]

I figured it out. The shrouds we're just a little too tight. After loosening them the pin goes in with no resistance and can wiggle it out without too much difficulty. I even got the may up single handed the other day.