putting on timing belt, have couple of questions

[TwIzTeD_3kGt]

That's exactly correct. If you've got all the slack out don't worry about the one tooth. Just be sure you're not pulling the belt TOO tight while you're putting it on. Pull it enough that the teeth on the belt fall naturally into the cogs, but don't reef on it.

I doubt anyone can pull hard enough to make the belt fall into a cog it shouldn't be in, or to damage the belt. The only fear I would have from pulling too hard is moving the gears it's already set on. You have a bad experience with that or what?

Sounds like you're routing it with the right amount of tension and leaving the slack in the correct area, but you were using the method for those who don't.