Search:

YARTS runs a bus between Mammoth and Toulumne Meadows so you don't have to hitch.

+1 for the Tom Harrison maps. Very nice maps.

I use a tarptent rainbow and am happy with it. I've heard good things about Lightheart tents, but never used one
http://www.lightheartgear.com/LightHeart_Gear/Home.html

+1 for the EOS. Love mine. Very bright !

My Tom Harrison map set of the JMT (you do have a Tom Harrison map, don't you ?) shows 7.1 miles from Tenaya Lake TH to the JMT. I would camp near the junction at sunrise creek. Plenty of water...

Jacks r Better

Princeton Tec

Maybe, but not on the JMT :)

Get a set of Tom Harrison maps and you'll be fine. The trail is easy to follow.

A 20 degree bag should be sufficient. You'll need a fleece and rain jacket anyway, so sleep in your clothes if you get cold.

Rambler:
That's good info in general and will be helpful to others who are hiking the entire trail, but Chinmusic is only going from Reds to Happy Isles.
My experience in that section is that it's...

what Big Dawg said. It shows you're a good manager, and not a quiter. Use it to your advantage.

My advice would be to slow down and enjoy the trip. As a good hiker friend of mine says...The journey is the destination.
The JMT has some of the most beautiful scenery in the world. Enjoy it. ...