My concerns that the R&P have been damaged are as follows:
lots of noise coming from the back beyond 65 mph. From Richmond to NoVA, which I drive once per week, you do 80 mph or get out of the way. At this speed, the truck has a lot of vibration and noise. If I grab the TCase shifter, I get a lot of "feedback" and movement, which seems to be at roughly the same beat that the pinion would be spinning.
Also,
When I tightned my pinion nut to spec, there was binding in the axle when the tires were rotated with the axle on jackstands. I had to back it off a round or two. This makes me think something is up.

I would prefer a pull and replace scenario and save my dough for other things... What bearings do you think I need to inspect and wouldn't I have oil out past the drums if the bearings went bad?

I don't really know what all's involved in pulling a 3rd, I guess...