Does anyone have thoughts on using genuine LR carrier bearings as opposed to after market bearings. Is there any real difference. Or is it worth spending the xtra on genuine LR bearings ?

If you mean the propshaft bearings either side of the VCU then cheap ones don't last in my experience.
Given that it is a fairly timely job I always fit FAG bearings.
Looking at modifying a pair to add seals to both sides of the bearing. The seals will run on the part of the shaft where the fairly daft bits of umbrella shaped thrower fit.
Sealed for life maybe ?!?!

Thank bud.