> I am in the final stages of building my Osprey Double. I can almost feel
> the waves under me...but until then I have a couple of questions.

> I am installing the rudder and the directions call for saturating the
> screw holes with epoxy. I did that but the problem is I think I did not
> mix the epoxy correctly (tried to mix a very small batch) and am not sure
> it is going to harden. Is it crucial that the holes (bracket holes and
> rudder chock holes on deck) have hardened epoxy? If it doesn't harden
> should I remove the screws and put in a better batch of the stuff?

> Varnishing is next, does anyone want to venture a quess as to how much
> varnish the double will take (2-3 coats)? Do you put varnish on with a
> foam roller, foam brush or a regular brush? Has anyone heard of McCloskey
> brand varnish? The local paint guy says all the varnishes are about
> equal.He also says that interior varnish, although no UV protection, is
> harder than exterior varnish. I'm not sure this is what I have been
> hearing on this board. I take the advice here more seriously than the
> part-timer at the paint shop.

> I'm venturing into all new territory. Thanks for the help, again.

> Tom

As a marine supply salesman, I get the best reports on Z-Spar "Flagship" varnish. "Captains" varnish is good but "Flagship" has more UV protection. Both are compatable with System 3 and West System Resins. (One part polyurethains won't cure over these resins) Yes they are expensive but well worth it for a job well done.