David, I encased the lower portion of Dauntless' rudder in fiberglass using epoxy resin. After that was well cured I then used 4 or 5 coats of Interlux 2000E epoxy barrier coat. Since I keep the boat in the water about 5 months a year I then used a couple of coats of Interlux VC 17 which works well in the fresh water where I keep her slipped. You can see the process I went thru on the website... _www.havasumontgomerys.piczo.com_ (http://www.havasumontgomerys.piczo.com) and look under the refurb section. Not saying that this is THE way to do this. Just the way I did it. By the way, the varnish used on the upper portion of the rudder is Interlux "Perfection" 2 part epoxy varnish. Expensive and a bit more trouble to work with, however, the rudder is just now approaching needing to be redone and it has been in the AZ sun for 6 years. I have been very happy with the product. Sean M23 "Dauntless" M17FD "Sneakers" _www.havasumontgomerys.piczo.com_ (http://www.havasumontgomerys.piczo.com) _www.sailhavasu.com_ (http://www.sailhavasu.com)