"So the air gap at the cam sensor - usually it just will not run but check it
Crank angel sensor failing - will give the fault you are describing
So if you can swap it with a friends to test it out"

I am glad you picked this up. Yes exactly right ,there was an air gap and now there isn't.. not sure iif this is throwing the tune??

We did turn the motor over by hand and the lines do indeed line up. All that's left to do from timing belt perspective is to count the teeth now i guess..

I did notice there is now a small crack in the cam sensor (around the bolt hole only) when I nipped it back up.. i cant see how that will cause any issues? I don't know anyone with same heads as me, would an EJ207 cam sensor work? (mine is EJ20K) btw- the engine check light is NOT on. wouldn't it be?

appreciate your advice.