When installing pintles, we suggest drilling an oversize hole 1/2" in diameter or larger through the rudder where the fastener will be installed. Fill the hole with a mixture of WEST System epoxy thickened with high density filler. Allow the epoxy to cure then drill a 1/4" diameter hole through the center of the epoxy plug. This will create a waterproof sleeve through the rudder at each fastener. See the epoxy kit below in "May we also suggest".

To prevent galling, lubricate all stainless steel threads with a thread lubricant like the one we offer below under "May we also suggest".