I've just seen a picture of a 1987 mast step and realized that the design is different from my 1983. The 83 has the open slots with the "ears" to catch the through rod at the base of the mast. Is the newer design with the bolt and what looks like a heavier gage SS make it any easier to step?? I'm looking for anything that will make the stepping process safer and less tramatic. Last time I took my mast down, it kicked out of the base before I had it all the way down.........no fun !!