I have a 1979 18’ Hobie beach cat and I’m having trouble stepping the mast. I’ve snapped two mast base hinges trying to get it up. What’s the best method to get it up? I’ve look at the mast stepper III but it might not fit my model. Do I need to the lines to the fore stay to keep the mast from swaying? Is it better to raise it while on the ground or trailer? Any help appreciated.

If you’re snapping mast hinges, then likely you are letting the mast sway too far off from the centerline of the boat. Allowing that to happen can snap the hinge. Have a second person help you raise the mast if you’re having trouble controlling the weight of the mast and keeping it from swaying.

I also find it to be significantly easier to raise the mast with the boat on the ground. Definitely my prefered method whenever its an option.

sm