bad Pinion bearing in differential

Would a bad pinion bearing in my differential cause my truck to make a squeaking or hissing sound (somewhat akin to dust on your brakes)? I've had this noise for about 6 months and I know it's not the brakes, I'm just hoping it's not the tranny since it shifts well and all that stuff.

Someone told me that may be my problem, I just wanted to see what others on the forum thought. I'm probably gonna have it looked at by my mechanic anyway, I've just been putting it off, but the noise is really loud now.

thanks

Noises such as this require a comprehensive road test by a tech, not something that can be diagnosed in this environment. Too many possilities here. Does not, by your description, sound like a pinion bearing, though. I'd suggest in the future posting year of truck also.

I had the same problem. the pinion gear when out but mine only lasted about 3 months after it started making the noise. it finally blew the rearend out and i had to replace it all. so you might want to get it check pretty soon then it wont cost as much to fix. i just went to a junk yard and bought the whole unit

Throw it up on some jack stands and drive it. Easier to locate drivetrain related issues and no road noise =)