To address the problem of the "ball" on the bottom of the mast interfering with the mast base...i.e. "too far forward"
The stepping link hinges on the pin in the base, it must swing forward to allow you to begin stepping, and must swing back to allow the mast and base to mate properly. Gravity is your friend here.
As you're stepping the mast, when approximately 3/4 of the way to vertical (straight up), pause your upward motion, and then give the mast a big shove upwards, the step link will pivot (hinge, kick) back/down allowing the mast and base to mate up as designed. Gravity will aid in the link "kicking back"
(Note, if you're using some winch or other system to raise/step the mast, this technique will not work, and you'll have to resort to prying or kicking)
Removing the step pin.
The rig on a 16 is very loose until the jib is tensioned. Consequently, the pin, the hinge and the mast will be easily "bound up" until all three are aligned.
Stand on the tramp, put your shoulder in to the back of the mast and push forward enough to take tension off the forestay, while simultaneously wiggling the step pin. You'll find the sweet spot and it'll slip right out.
(Note, I like to use a small, size #0 or #00, phillips screwdriver for my step pin...has a nice handle to grab, much easier to remove. It seems as though the Hobie step pin grew in diameter lately, with the newer step link kit, and barely fits in to the hole on the mast)
p.s. use the hole marked 16 for a 16, 14 for the 14. This
step link and the newer Hobie one work very well p.s.
hope this helps
sheet in...max out