How to set up my new Ion mast base protector?

Jama · Joined: 04 Jan 2014 Posts: 18

I just purchased my first ever mast base protector and I'm unsure how to actually set it up. I thought that it would just slide over the mast base or it would open up to wrap around it but it doesn't. Do I need to take apart my mast base to set it up?

My mast base is a 2-Bolt Quick Release Tendon Mast Base US Cup: https://chinooksailing.com/collections/bases/products/2-bolt-quick-release-tendon-mast-base-us-cup

This is the mast base protector in question: https://www.ion-products.com/water/windsurfing/accessories/tec-accessories/mast-base-protector/

Thanks!

dllee · Joined: 03 Jul 2009 Posts: 5329 Location: East Bay

How about slipping it over the mast base, then attach the tube extender?

Jama · Joined: 04 Jan 2014 Posts: 18

swchandler · Joined: 08 Nov 1993 Posts: 10588

What do the folks at Ion have to say?

Jama · Joined: 04 Jan 2014 Posts: 18

kevinkan · Joined: 07 Jun 2001 Posts: 1661 Location: San Francisco

yes, i use these. they are very stiff when new, and the opening for the UJ is smaller than similar products from Chinook or DaKine. This is good, as they tend to stay on better when worn in and also on the Duotone iTendon UJ which has smaller tendon caps.

With the Chinook US Cup UJ, it may be easier put it on from the bottom so you don't have to get it over the US Cup assembly.

isobars · Joined: 12 Dec 1999 Posts: 20935

For next time or any lurkers, here's an alternative from four years ago. I still use mine every session.

http://www.iwindsurf.com/forums/viewtopic.php?p=280279&highlight=cheap+toe+protection&sid=d5639171aa5c644266199ca8a2596f38#280279

manuel · Joined: 08 Oct 2007 Posts: 1158

Yes, so stiff you may need to use a tool such as a screwdriver, a pipe of some sort to soften it up a bit.

isobars · Joined: 12 Dec 1999 Posts: 20935

In the rare event I NEED to slog significantly due to a specific and urgent need to be somewhere else before the wind resumes, I rely on deck pad traction rather than a mechanical stop such as my uni. Depending on wind speed, point of sail, and board volume quantity and distribution, I may have my windward foot in front of the mast anyway (e.g., slogging off the wind on a 60 L board in 3 kts if that). Regardless, I've never yet hurt a foot using these cheapo plastic cones. I am barefooted, but then I'm not doing the freestyle stuff you do, either. (They also come in many colors if anyone cares.)

Jama · Joined: 04 Jan 2014 Posts: 18