I've heard it is a bit of a PITA to change (mine's call cracked up and collapsed), so before I embark on changing it, anyone have any tricks/tips/hints/suggestions to make my life easier? Thanks.

Figure out where the little bits on the back of the engine go before you tear out the old stuff. Really hard to visualize and install once everything's out of place. I'd pull one hose connection apart, hook up the new, pull the next, etc.

I did mine when I was replacing all the plumbing in the engine bay, so I had most of the stuff that's in the way out of the way. Made the crankcase breather system a bit easier. I worked my way out from in the back of the engine using that procedure.

I placed an old backpacking sleeping pad on top of the engine and layed on top of it. Wasn't too bad, just took some time.

I found it to be a PITA as well, and the biggest issue was getting the breather valve (?) in the center connection in to place so I could then clamp it in place. I did it without removing anything.

Remember that there is piece of mesh wire on the passenger side of the hose that needs to be transfered.

Last, but not least, if you are NOT in Washington or Oregon, you can buy genuine Audi parts at wholesale from Sunset Audi in Beaverton, Oregon. As I remember, the part was $130 and they sold it for about $95. No affiliation on my part, just passing on good info.

Have fun.