Hi everyone, first X5 tread;

I was hoping to see if anyone has a good approach (secret tricks) with R/R a Crankcase Vent Valve on a 2001, 3.0i?
I was told and (read); that, you do not have to take off the intake manifold to do this job.

But I can't "seem" to clear enough parts from around the intake manifold, and get to the mounting points in order to remove it? (so I think).
I know where the hose's connect, and can see some of the unit hiding under the Intake Manifold; and, I am following the Bentley Manual up to the end of it's instructions (vague), and then some; but, I can't seem to get a clear enough sight on how the vent value is held in.

I found the best Tech answers on Xworld.com, and was wondering if this topic found any consolidation? It's becoming a big enough topic (issue) to be put on the front page. (I would think?)

I really would like to get this sick part replaced before it spits out more brown stuff on the "just cleaned" valve cover or worse!

Has any one done this before? Thanks