Mitsubishi Repair: Squealing Water Pump Belt, crank pulley, timing belts

Question
1990 Eclipse GS 2.0 Automatic. I recently had my alternator along with several belts replaced. A few weeks later I started to hear a loud squealing sound when accelerating from a stop. Soon after the water pump belt snapped. This was replaced by the mechanic who performed the original work. Now, a few weeks later I am starting to hear this noise again very briefly and sporadically. It's been suggested that my water pump is freezing up and should also be replaced. Is this a likely cause of the problem I am having with the belt? Thanks for your input.

Answer
Debra,
On your car, the the belt that goes over your water pump pulley also goes over your alternator and crank pulley.  It's possible your alternator bracket may be too loose, and that is causing slack to in the belt.  Loose belts are what make that squealing noise.  It is possible the water pump is seizing up, which will cause the belt to slip across it and make the noise.  

If it has been more than 60,000 miles since you last got your timing belts replaced, have that done.  Since your mechanic would need to remove the timing belts in order to replace your water pump, it's definitely a good idea to replace the timing belts as well.
Good luck!