The Gougeon brothers suggest drilling screw holes over-size and inserting the screw into the hole filled with epoxy. Because epoxy softens at around 200°F, they suggest that you can remove screws by warming them with a soldering iron before unscrewing. Or, you can put bees wax on the threads to prevent bonding. Most likely, epoxy will not bond well to stainless steel screws right out of the box. I have used all three approaches on big boats without any problems. I would stay away from the 3M solution that Chris suggested.

> Ken,

> I have the same question with my Ches. 17. Just finishing up the
> varnishing. I'll probably go with a clear silicon suggesting. I was also
> worried about future varnish recoats.