I think I have answered my own question here but I wouldn't mind a yes or no from some more expreienced guys. After raising the vehicle I remove the wheels and tires and pop of the driveshaft. I then take a nice little 0-50 in/lbs dial type torque wrench and see how much torque is required to rotate the pinion. Go about my seal change and then when installing my NEW nut with some Loctite I tighten it until I arrive at the same pre-load as measured. Install driveshafts, fill diff with fluid, install wheels and tires...wheel. That sound about right?
I have read on Pirate that changing diff fluid and making sure vent lines are clear are the first steps to see if a leaking pinion seal will work. Old wives tale or the truth...I guess I'll find out.