UK Car Repair: Clunk on Accleration, volvo station wagon, loose bolts

Question
Hi,

I don't think my question is too specific to make of vehicle but can you consider the following.

I just bought an 82 Volvo station wagon, and right after acceleration from a stop, there is a couple of hard clunks from the center line just behind underneath seatback area. The harder the acceleration the louder the clunk.

How serious is this.

Also, what causes the high pitch squeal from the front of the engine area where belts are. Could this be bad bearings, shafts, or just a belt issue.

Thank you very much
William

Answer
There is excessive wear or looseness in the drive train.  It could be just be just loose bolts on a drive shaft connection, or a worn diferential.  Loose components can come undone and cause serious damage, a worn diff is not going to go suddenly. The only way to tell is to raise the car and see where the play is.  In the meantime accelerate a little easier.