yea.. I figured as much.. obviously the lift and tires aren't helping me much, but they do look cool..
I assumed having the gear swap would have improved the rpm range for lower speeds, I guess it only contraindicates itself with making my truck faster off the line..
I'm pretty sure most exhaust setups don't give too much in mpg gains to begin with.. mainly you get the sound and slight performance boost.. any gains in economy are quickly droned out by the awesome sound..
I never planned on getting the best fuel economy.. I guess I can settle for what I get.. besides, I always have an 06 Honda Civic sitting in the driveway if the pocketbook ever gets too tight..
-btw- the exhaust tips were painted black with some Krylon BBQ or High Temp spray from the local Wal-Mart.. They've been holding up pretty well since March '08, I haven't had to touch it up yet.. worst case scenario, you get a chip and then ya spray a little more..