Well a year has gone by since my problem at SDAC-15. I have finally dropped the pan and pulled the intermediate shaft and oil pump to assess the damage. Looks like the oil pump was at fault based on the shipping teeth of this oil pump. I will never use Mellings again... genuine Mopar for me. I am going to call Mellings and send them the pics to get them to send me $$ for labor, parts, and a new intermediate shaft... oh and to take the new Mellings that I already have.
Resolution kept large for analysis....
Frank