Thanks for the info guys! If anything my stays & shrouds are on the loose side. I will try sanding and polishing the mast base so it is real smooth. It may have a rough spot currently. I also read about "seating" new chips by pushing forward hard on the upright mast after inserting the chip, then removing the mast to check that the chip is properly centred and indented. I wonder if a dab of vaseline would help by providing extra lubrication? I suppose it would attract sand though. Does anyone know of any aftermarket, heavy duty chips?

Mark Owens
1976 Hobie H16 sail # 19857