B234 - no balanceshaft belt?

The balance shaft and its belt are a known problem area so I'd tend to leave it disconnected and save the time and money.

I don't know much about the Volvo balance shaft engines, but as a general principle if it's there, it's needed. For example, Porsche 4 cyl balance shaft engines (944,968) are normally reliable but if the balance shaft is not doing its job properly they often develop vibration induced faults and failures. So, my two penneth: go with your original plan and get it fixed. John

if the belt whines it's too tight , the correct tension is remarkably slack

"Jus gimme the fax ma'am" 

Now, who can place the TV programme? But enough of that, has anyone other than me actually made a before and after comparison of the same engine, same car, with and without balance shaft belt?