I probably have, but have forgotten. I remember making that little hatch door where the mast slides into the sliding companionway hatch from scratch once for a guy. Anyway, you should replace the old cable and fittings with similar pieces that are new. When you remove what is there, then just duplicate it new. I don't recall if it was wire or rope, nor how it attached (knot or shackle, etc.). But, if you take it apart you will see what was used and then go from there.