Mitsubishi Repair: Ignition/no start problem, timing belt tensioner, spark plug wires

Question
1998 Eclipse GS 2.0 automatic.
I have an intermittent no start issue.When the car starts,it will run just fine.Then if you let it set for a few minutes or more(really no pattern)the next time you try to start it will not start.Wait for 10-30 minutes and it will start.When checking systems at time of failure,there is no spark at spark plug wires.At the price of electronic parts the shotgun method is out of the question. Any direction is appreciated.Car has been flawless up until now. It has 61,000 miles on it.

Answer
Randy,
It's possible your starter is wearing down.  Though you may be able to hear the starter motor turn over the engine, it may no longer be powerful enough to crank the engine completely anymore.  Reason being, when high current eletrical motors wear down, excessive heat will cause extremely high resistance in the motor.  High resistance will prevent the starter motor from producing enough power to turn over the engine fast enough to start the car running.  Letting it sit for 10-30 minutes will cool down the starter motor enough to be able to remedy the problem.  Also, mentioning that once the car is started it runs fine makes me think this is a starter problem.

But you should still have other components like your alternator, battery, and battery cables checked out.  Excessive corrosion on the battery and/or cables will cause this same problem.  A worn alternator can cause this problem too.  And if you need any of these items replaced, you should also consider spending a little extra money in getting your timing belt, tensioner and water pump replaced if you haven't already.  If you're still running on the original timing belt, tensioner and water pump, their likelihood of failure after 60,000 miles is quite high.  Complete enging failure typically occurs with these cars if the timing belt breaks while the car is running.
Good luck!