Code 1381 VCT Problem 98 Ford ztec 16V DOC w/air

Bought the car used @ 114K. Seller said all was fine LOL. 4 months later started out replacing serpentine belt that came of. Removed all engine covers & splash guard, ended up replacing leaking water port gasket on engine block, idler pulley on middle engine cover, water pump. Then while I was at it I replaced timing belt after 114K (not broken), tensioner, new plugs.
The problem as referenced is the 1381 code scanned by auto zone. I researched the timing belt replacement procedure as best I before timing belt replacement. Aligned crank key slot @ slightly ahead of 12 o'clock to compensate for engine tilt. Prior to this I Rotated engine w/crank bolt to place a straight bar between cam ends to align them w/ TDC (w/out loosening exhaust pulley). Checked TDC w/screw driver on #1 as well. Replaced new tensioner, installed belt from crank clockwise keeping tension on belt then around cams. Rotated engine twice & checked timing. It was still on marks and w/flat bar. Never touched cam pulleys. Reinstalled valve cover, plugged VCT sensor back in & buttoned everything up.
Car runs like a scared rabbit but idles rough to almost shut off. During the process I did remove & reinstall the oil filter (still full) to access a bolt in the back but never touched the VCT other than to unplug & re-plug the sensor plug.
I have researched many articles on this code but I am @ a loss as what to try 1st. I will recheck the timing marks to eliminate a skipped belt. I don 't have a break out 104 pin box or any other fancy electrical devices. Please advise process of elimination. My 44. Mag is aimed @ the engine