The bottom line is the input shaft gets grit, mud, sand, gunk, and other forms of bullsh#t on it

THIS is what was never elucidated to us. In this case, the TO bearing was not the problem. Heck it is not even seized, by the proper defination of the term (seized usually is ued to describe corrosion or even extream heat/welding failure). The problem lies somewhere on the input shaft, or the collar the bearing rides on. THAT is where you need to look. I would suggest trying more lubrication with the proper grease. Something that will keep the crud out. Who knows, the collar or the base the TO bearing presses on may be worn or damaged. This would allow for more crud to get in the way.

Beyond that your options are: a) stay out of the mud b) seal it up better to keep the crud out, c) deal with it, as that is what happens when the bellhousing becomes contaminated.

Good Luck, sorry we could not help you better. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

Michael