found this in my engine bay...

[ILLiCliPSE]

heard a crackling/ tapping noise coming from the motor...didnt sound like anything metal-on-metal...just figured it was a torn belt. and what do you know i pop my hood and find this laying on the right side of the top timing belt cover, just "north" of the accesory belts. Its about a 6 inch section of some sort of belt. what belt could this be? should i replace it right away? I notice how it says "(Mitsu emblem)SS...." on it, so i tried to look for other belts with the same letters, but couldnt. Ive also noticed that my belts have been whinning since my mechanic did my timing belt.

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[BoostedinSoFla]

That definitely looks like the remnants of a shredded accessory belt that might have been there from when the previous owner had the car. If any of your accessory belts were shredded like that you would definitely notice it; they're right there staring at you. Come on Brian...