PCV "traffic jam" w/ multi-port vacuum connector... order of march?

[fixizin]

Got a '99 Flex-fuel, low-use 3.0, approaching 40k mi., figured while I was changing fluids and filters, maybe I'd pop in a new PCV valve... or at least remove the original and see if it still rattles... maybe snake the mirror (and a couple thousand candlepower) in there and check the grommet too... hmmm...

SIDE NOTE: I have perused ALL 3.0 threads with PCV in the title, and contrary to the shortcomings others encountered with non-Motorcraft PCVs, my Purolator from Advanced came with an assortment of ELL-bows, incl. the simple-L needed. They fit tight after soaking in hot water for 30 secs... great idea...

ANYWAY, my prob on THIS particular rev. of the Vulcan is that straight above the PCV--i.e. right in the removal path--is the "all in one" vacuum control line connector boot, jutting out the back of the intake manifold... it's 4WD, and controls the PVH hubs, amongst other things.

Is this vacuum point a nightmare to remove, trivial, or some mildly witchy thaaang in between? Looks like it definitely needs to be yanked REARward, before PCV can be yanked UPward... savvy?

Anyone done this "flavor" of 3.0 PCV, or that spark-plug-boot-looking vacuum connector?

Thanks in advance...

 

[fixizin]

Bumpety-BUMP!