"If you don’t trust the cleat, I would remedy that first. An emergency line to the mast also works. "
it is so important to have a substantial and well backed cleat, and preferably through non-cored deck. I do not think most builder installed cleats meet these requirements.
But I am not sure using the mast is a great idea other than in an emergency. The mast is designed for vertical loading with a few small bolts holding it in place (deck stepped). Substantial side and shock loading could possibly do serious damage.
it is so important to have a substantial and well backed cleat, and preferably through non-cored deck. I do not think most builder installed cleats meet these requirements.
But I am not sure using the mast is a great idea other than in an emergency. The mast is designed for vertical loading with a few small bolts holding it in place (deck stepped). Substantial side and shock loading could possibly do serious damage.