I would go get a belt and put it on and run it. I haven't seen one smack any valves yet. I have rebuilt two zetecs(not including the several times I rebuilt my drag engine due to melted pistons), did timing belts on about 30(8 out of 10 of them were tossed belts) and Continuously are playing with my own. I am currently running a 95' block with a 00' focus head. It's a bit hard to do, but juggle the right timing belt parts and it works fine. (A little info on how much time I have in timing belts with the ZETEC). Most shops are going to get the most that they can from thier customers. Been selling parts to shops for about 5 years. Don't listen to what they say, go check it yourself. You'll be suprised.
HENRY

95 Contour, Custom EVO bodykit, 2.0l, PNP Focus head, Stage 2 cams, Je pistons, Eagle rods, 4in1header, 2.5" header back exhaust(complete stainless), D P nitrous, ram air intake, 10mm wires, flamethrower.