Any advice on mounting cleats on mast ? Should I drill pilot holes first then use self-taping screws or is the aluminum mast too strong to accept self-taping screws ?

After reading everyones comments on this topic of wind conditions, boat control and heeling I have a question.... I have a 1994 Mac 26 S. Do your comments also apply to my style boat, or are there design differences between S, X, and M that someone would have to be specific in their comments that wo...