LOL thanks for the tips. I have a parts list on the first page, which includes an oem manifold, oem tensioner, oem crank seal, and Febi chain. I have good experience with Febi parts. I've done 2 other intake manifolds and reused the injector seals, a little silicone spray goes a long way. The other parts are in good shape, or I would have bought them. I understand the VW community is OCD. You want to spend $2k, more power to you. Spend a little more, you can have another engine. I am putting in new plugs and R8 coils as well, I didn't list these as most people would reuse what they've got. I get a set of Denso double platinums for about $16. Let me add that this is an 09 that will have 200k miles this time next year. There is a point of diminishing returns. What you call half-assed or the bare minimum, is exactly what this engine needs.
Nothing more, nothing less.