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Speaking of which. I've heard people say they can pull the axles out without removing brake lines. Any of you guys done this? I would think you would bend or kink the lines doing this. Would save a lot of time if you could do it though.

Do that a few times and wind up with a cracked brake line. I take the extra few minutes and pull it all the way out.
The squeak may be the rear u-joint failing/running dry.
Jack it up and see if there is any excessive play in the pinion. Wiggle the drive shaft at the u-joint and see if there is any play. Tighten all assemblies as needed as said before.
Danny

1985 SR5 4Runner
eLocked with Carter Lock
4.7:1 single case
Davez Offroad twin stick