Getting a compression tube into mast

[sailboy21]

The "mast hound" for my inner forestay and running backstays does not have a compression tube for the 1/2" bolt that runs through it. I want to put one in, but am not exactly sure what approach to take.

My first thought was to enlarge the holes to 5/8, insert the appropriate aluminum tube, filing the ends flush to the outside surface of the mast. I am also thinking that I could insert a messenger line through both sides and draw a compression tube cut to the ID between the two holes. If I did it this way (if it is even possible) one would have to be very careful not to let the tube fall down inside the mast if the bolt were removed in the future.
Either way it doesn't seem terribly important that the tube be welded or brazed. That sort of thing is probably best left to the manufacture.

Is there a better way?

[heinzir]

I did essentially the same thing when I put a tube between the holes for the tabernacle hinge pin on my mast. The tube keeps the pin/bolt from wandering off target when inserted from one side. I used a piece of aluminum pipe, and instead of cutting the ends flush with the mast I made the pipe 1/16"-1/8" longer on each side. I used a ball peen hammer to peen over the ends like a rivet and then filed everything smooth. It works fine and hasn't budged in 15 years.