Gitzo GT1542T Series 1 Traveler Tripod and Markins Q3t with knob release, setup questions

I just bought the Gitzo GT1542T Series 1 Traveler Tripod and Markins Q3t ballhead with knob release.  Finally ALL the parts arrived and I am playing with them and checking them out.

Now I need some help with setup because instructions were much less than desired: Here are my questions:

1. Do I mount the Q3t head on top of the provided power plate/disc ? I can remove this small round plate/disc and mount the head directly on the center column but it does not look right that way.

2. How tightly screwed I should keep the power plate ? Just hand tight or ??? Not sure because instruction say nothing about it

3. How tightly screwed should I keep be the Q3t on the power plate? No instructions on that either?

4. What things I should inspect in the tripod and ballhead to insure there are no quality issues? I would like to do it before the 14 day return period is over.

BTW I love the tripod and ballhead's look and feel. It is very light setup and pretty sturdy.  I think this will be great travel kit for me and would last me a long time

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2ShootDigital