removing the pins from a mast cap

[Mashmaster]

What is the best way to remove the pins from a mast cap?

 

[L&VW]

Find a small nail (a "brad") and punch the two pins inward so they clear the mast.

 

[L&VW]

Find a small nail (a "brad") and punch the two pins inward so they clear the mast.

Grind a "flat" on one end or the other.

And, if a pin gets lost, use the mandrel (shaft) of a stainless pop-rivet, as below:

The shaft of a 5/32 rivet is perfect size to hold in place. 1/8 is too small and will fall through.

More on advanced pop-rivets:

Rivet Question

 

[signal charlie]

We have also drilled them out, when we have a new cap with new pins to install.