404 filler vs dowels for thru bolt holes

[chrisf695]

So I just recently removed all my brackets for my current swim platform setup and have 16 1/4 holes, I've already drilled them up to 3/8 for fresh material, what would be the best way to fill these holes? I have west systems epoxy and 404 filler from a past project... what I'm thinking is to just tape off/cover the inside holes and then just fill the holes from the outside with a filler mix and tape it up so theres no sagging. Now... A few others have told me too just use some wooden dowels and epoxy, so Im a little confused/on the fence. I will be re-gelling the transom when I'm done...plan on installing a new aluminum platform after

Thanks fellas

 

[Woodonglass]

Well gel coat and epoxy don't mix really well. At least that's my opinion. West Systems epoxy DOES seem to work pretty well with Gel Coat however. Sooo, I think if you mix the epoxy and thicken it up to the consistency of peanut butter and fill the holes your plan should work just fine. Matching the Gel Coat color will be the hardest part!!!