In a message dated 4/16/2005 1:23:14 PM Pacific Standard Time, bobo4u@qwest.net writes: I'm a little concerned that the gelcoat may not stick to the epoxy-based repair. Hi Bob Not that I'm an expert! However, Don Casey's book "Hull & Deck Repair" says dont use an epoxy if the finish is going to be gelcoat. Instead use a polyester resin as gelcoat will not bond well with Epoxy. My plan is to fillet the holes I'm making using Epoxy thickened with colloidal Silica and then seal the ladder & mount in a bed of polysulfide. For the holes left from the previous mount, I'll fill them with Fiberglass and polyester resin and cap them off with gelcoat. Don Casey says it's best to let a woman approve the gelcoat color match. Or if that's not possible, develop a "good enough" attitude. I got West System Epoxy "how to" manual today. It covers much of what Don Casey says as well as goes into more on the Epoxy, while Don's book deals with much more, such as sealants and polyester resins. Both books age worth buying. Bill M-17 "Tipperary"