I may have done it wrong. Let me know if this is likely causing my problem...

I put my timing belt on with tension pulley on spring tension and all timing marks lined up.

I rotated the engine 6 full cycles and checked again. Everything still lined up. I then rotated engine to the "tension set" point. and tightened tension pulley. I then did three full cycles and everything still lined up.

Looking back, I didn't measure anything tension deflection wise but it was a new spring on the tensioner.

I a now having what sounds like a knocking sound. IF I have to pull my car apart again is there an easy way to make sure my tension is correct? I can't imagine you all have special tools for measuring this...

 

The spring should be all that is needed. You can help it a bit but I'd only do that if the deflection is off. Then just tighten the bolt..

Apply about 22 pounds of pressure to the center of the belt between the camshaft pulleys. The deflection should be 9-11.5mm.

Some people have reported a "whine" if the belt is too tight. So beware of that. Although a lot of times a new belt will whine regardless for a bit.

 

That's what I have heard.

I wonder if my problem has to do with the fact that the cam rotates separate from the sprocket. (Vvt)

EDIT: I am just dreading pulling the timing cover off AGAIN. I haven't even touched my turbo install which is the whole reason I pulled stuff apart this weekend but a timing belt and water pump was due at the same time. GRRRR