Thanks geezer! Thats a lot of information in one paragraph.
I did replace the balance shaft belt at the same time as the timing belt. So at least we know that it wont shred into the other workings.
my guess is that, as a novice at this, I didnt line all the markers up exactly (although they looked good to both me and my friend), or perhaps the alignment shifted slightly when applying pressure to the tensioner. Is that a possible?
i will check those points you mentioned as soon as is possible. in the meantime, is it safe to drive without to much anxiety?
thanks again.