David The new M-15's have a slotted mast step with a fixed pin through the mast. I walk the mast back until it almost touches the hatch cover then pull the mast backwards to slide the pin out of the slot. I then raise the mast level with the boat and move it forward until it touchs the mast support at the bow end of the Pacific trailer. Great setup. It takes less time to do than tell. The slotted mast step is just a stamped piece of sheet metal. If you drop the mast often, I would consider replacing yours with the new type. Give Bob a call, I sure he can supply one. Then you need to install the matching pin in the bottom of the mast. Fair winds Don Ludlow M-15 # 620 Sweet Dream