Dennis:
Funny you should mention the 454; I had a 3/4 with a 454 that my son now has. It got 10-13 empty. 9 & below with any kind of heavy load. I shudder to think what it would be with this rig. Probably 5-6 as you said. Not too much better than the Yamahas...
A couple people have approached me about packing s'more power into the Cummins as you mentioned. I've heard that fuel mileage will increase with the upgrades they describe. I didn't want the engine computer throwing codes after the Cummins has been souped up, but they say that can be adjusted post-procedure. I've never seriously considered it as I have plenty of power the way it is. If the Marlin taxes it too much underway, I'll revisit the upgrade procedure. I was told around $2500.00 would make a big difference. Will I be illegal after it's done?
Fish:
Thanks for checking in. I seem to have jumped off the deep end, wouldn't you say?
Lsquared:
Thanks for the input; yeah, I need flags bow, stern & amidships along with the amber flashing lights and the "Oversize Load" sign fastened behind the outboards. Just the flags would indeed be easier.
My guess is that your Ram will still give you 10MPG or thereabouts.Maybe 11.. We both have the 6.7 Cummins and it's great. Your truck will be happy as can be pulling that Sailfish.
I agree, the Continental trailers seem to be well-made. Enjoy the Keys; the water should be Caribbean clear this time of year.
Russ:
Earlier in this lengthy exchange, I mentioned that the Garmin Dome will be removed for height purposes. It stood 14' 4" with the Garmin on, and will be 13' 5" when removed. Thanks to Island Pilot's research and info, I could've opted for a pre-determined electronic route allowing for the 14' 4" clearance with the Garmin left up there. The downside to that plan was that I would have to watch every powerline, tree branch and low overhanging structure when off the interstate. I don't want to take out the Garmin & hardtop on the way to the Pilot truck stop or Cracker Barrel.
Thanks for the kind words about the boat. If you do get a tow vehicle in the future, buy as much towing capacity & power as you can afford. I have never been sorry yet for doing that. I've been darn near broke at times, but never sorry.
Harpoon:
Thanks for chiming in; Do you have any problems with your height or beam off the interstate? That's what I'm most concerned with. Eventually you have to leave the interstate for fuel, bathroom breaks, sleep, food...It's what I'll encounter after I exit the highway that I worry about.