[quote=dcwhite]Whenever possible, it is preferable to step the mast while the boat is on the trailer. This is preferred because the boat is still tied down and stable. Stability will help you.
When you raise the mast on the H16, the hinge over-rotates and the ball wants to miss the socket (towards the front) because of the mast leverage (you are pushing on the 30% mast length when trying to raise it).
Typically I would raise the mast until about 80degrees; while pushing with one hand about shoulder height; pull the bottom of the mast backwards to pop the hinge backwards so the ball would line up with the socket. If you are not able to do this, ask the crew to push the bottom of the mast to align with the socket. Be careful with the crew near the socket and mast base while raising the mast- if a pin comes loose- anyone near the base of the mast could get hurt.
My 1983 H16 preferred the pin location for the H14 on the hinge. If you have options- see which hole works better?
If you raise the mast on the trailer- it should not sway and you do not need to tie anything to a forestay.
Cheers[/quote]
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