Bones, Thanks for the detailed input and suggestions. I hadn't really thought much about oil vs varnish, but my varnish is now over two years old, and looks it. Since I keep the boat on a trailer, my plan is to refinish and then get a full cover for semi-permanent protection. Whichever finish I use, I'd rather not have to redo it once or twice a year, which seems unavoidable for finishes exposed to the sun if you want them to look good. By the way, where can I find the material from Don Casey? Also by the way, has anyone bought an M-17 cover from Bob Rowland at Sailor's Tailor? He did a design last year from measurements I gave him, but I didn't follow through yet and buy one. Thanks, Rick M-17 Lynne L ************** One site keeps you connected to all your email: AOL Mail, Gmail, and Yahoo Mail. Try it now. (http://www.aol.com/?optin=new-dp&; icid=aolcom40vanity&ncid=emlcntaolcom00000025)