Reread and realize I very misinterpreted the post by not reading "machine screws (aka bolts) and instead thinking of sheet metal screws. My apologies.
I take it that you're planning on those fold-out steps. I'd be inclined to shape the inside surface of the step a little rather than adding a pad. Should be easy to just lay a bit of say 80# across the mast and rub till the step takes the shape. This makes a subtle error that will vanish in whatever you use for bedding.
G'luck
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