John,
Very good read, I really enjoyed it, has a lot of good things. What I would like to add is, depends on where you are in the world. If you're in a place, bfe, (Gulf of Mexico, 100 miles offshore), if you need some more rods, may cost a little more, ($6000 for the boat out and whatever their charging for the load, minimum if there's nothing else in the field. Just think if you need just 20 pounds more of rods. I know that most people on here are just a few miles from the closest weld supply store, just some of us, even topside welding just don't have the luxury of a store nearby. Just something to think about for those that are just starting or have never been out in the field.
Chuck Welch