Wade, before I changed the shrouds to the newer ones, I had to replace the mast base. It does fit into the mast step casting on the front crossbar fairly well; I use the "hinge" technique, and during the raising process the hinge keeps the base aimed right at the hole in the mast step... as long as I attach the hinge properly, that is. It's labeled "top", and if I get it backwards, the ball will NOT drop into the cup.

hobie1616, your advice is exactly on the mark; thanks. I felt very nervous about disconnecting the shrouds, even when holding a trap handle, because a breeze or a moment's inattention could cause the mast to fall. So the last time I sailed, I set the shrouds to the third or fourth hole in the chainplate... and forgot that I had done so. The inch or two on each side makes a big difference during setup.

Matt, thanks for the advice. I have a new forestay waiting to be installed. It looks like I'll need to drill out the block for the jib halyard, though, and attach the forestay with a clevis pin and a cotter pin. Right? The jib block sheave seems to be assembled with stainless rivets.

I know, I know... I should just go all the way to the "Aussie" jib system. Cost is a concern, though. I'd like to keep doing this in small increments, if I can.

Rick