Mast stanchion push pin

[trailertrawlerkismet]

I noticed the push pin that is used to connect the folded down mast to the mast support bar almost dislodged when we went to launch Kismet a couple of days ago, after towing her 60 miles. Obviously if this had come out and was undetected for any length of time while trailering our boat a good amount of damage could of occurred to the visor and or fore deck area. Has anyone else experienced this and or has anyone replaced the standard push pin with something more formidable?

 

[SUWANNEE]

The pin has a nasty habit of rusting/corroding/the little ball/mechanism Freezing.
I try to remember to keep it well lubricated with a lithium spray. When I remember to spray it, I also make sure that I work the little ball with my pliers ensuring that the spring is in fact pushing it all the way out into it's proper position.
I have never thought about replacing it and have never had it fall out.

 

[LADYBUG TOO]

We use an electrical snap tie to keep it in place. The ties are cheap, easy to cut off and do the trick.

Pat and Carolyn, Ladybug, Too

 

[Crewdog]

Great ideas, thanks for the tips.

Bill