Tom:
I agree with you Tom that if found the problem should be corrected (re-glued, as always your suggestions always work the best), I was just trying to point out the possible problem of loose mast collars may be more rampant than what we have been led to believe (based on my 3 out of 3 bad ones).
My observation of the epoxy type used in their production is that it might be possible that they are using a quick set type general purpose type epoxy in production (only Hobie knows for sure what they use), something like (
http://www.loctiteproducts.com/p/epxy_q ... ck-Set.htm ). If you look at most of those quick set grades, most are not typically advised for high moisture areas ( water can and will wick in under that collar and just sit in there), unless it's of course a special marine grade epoxy.
I'm just trying to point out the obvious (based on my 2010, 2011, and 2012 loose mast collars from the factory, and the tell tale white appearance of the failed epoxy (usually means it's been moisture attacked). Knowing Hobie, they will read this and quietly look into it and apply corrective measures if needed (they always do).
I'm only saying anything because I hate to see all these people trying some of these odd fixes and adjustments, to try and correct what might turn out to be a manufacturing oversight in the Hobie factory. Then again this could be all about nothing.
Bob