Mitsubishi Repair: Timing Belt Repair, mitsubishi eclipse gs, mitsubishi eclipse

Question
1994 Mitsubishi Eclipse GS, 2.0L Non Turbo, GS, Manual, My question is about Timing Belt repair.  I would like to know, how does one tell if the problem is the timing belt or another problem all together.  My car makes a noise that sounds like a timing chain noise.  I had the valve guide seals replaced about two months ago and the machanic said I would need one soon.  I also have a smell that's like oil leaking onto the exhaust.  Thank you for the Help

Answer
Wallace,
Because your car uses a rubber timing belt, it should not be making any noise.  The noise you may be hearing are the lifters under your valve cover.  Those are notorious for making a lot of noise when your engine is cold.  They won't really cause any problems, but they can be annoying.  Keep an eye on your oil level if you think you're buring oil.  A drop in oil level and blue smoke in your exhaust will confirm the presents of burning oil.

Your timing belt should be replaced every 45,000 - 60,000 miles.  The hydraulic tensioner and water pump should be replaced as well with your timing belt if they have never been changed before.
Good luck!