I have recently bought second hand gear which included “US mast base”. All seems fine but when trying to take the mast off the mast base, it is almost impossible as the mast base seems to stick inside the mast extension. The pins in the mast base are moving smoothly though. It seems that there is some friction between these two parts as the sides of the mast base are slightly rough. Is there anything I could do to help these two parts move smoothly, like applying a lubricant (which)?

I wouldn't put any lubricant on it as that will only attract sand which will make it worse. Just make sure it is clean of sand and any other debris and make sure it is supposed to fit.... Usually they are fairly tight but if keep clean they slide in and out of the mast OK.

Al.

Thanks, perhaps these elements were stored for too long without use. I did clean them and they seem to move bit better now. Thanks again