Mitsubishi Repair: Eagle Talon/eclipse starting issue, crank pulley, average lifespan

Question
hey i realize i have a talon but same diff.
anyway 1990 FWD turbo, it was running until it just died underway, i couldn't get it going since.
the starter turns. it makes a whirring sound like it is freewheeling. also i had my wife turn it over while i stuck my head under the hood and to my surprise all the pulleys and belts where spinning with the starter.  i was under the impression that the starter ran on the flywheel. i must be wrong.  i am thinking that the timing belt must have gone. is this a common problem. apparently the engine was rebuilt before i got it around 80K ago. any info and insight u could give me would be much appreciated. thanks


Answer
Jordon,
The starter does turn the flywheel, switch in connected to the transmission and crankshaft.  The crank pulley on the crankshaft is connected to all the belts.  That's why you see them moving when you try to start your car.  The timing belts on the 2.0L engines (especially the turbo models) should be replaced every 45k-60,000 miles.  That's the average lifespan of them.  If your timing belt breaks while the engine is running, it can cause severe internal engine damage (bent valve, valve guide, piston heads).  I would also recommend having your car's computer inspected as well.  Those have been known to go bad over time in older Eclipses/Talons. http://90gsx.com/eclipse/cap/caps.htm
Good luck!