Thanks, that 034 piece looks nice. I've been doing some additional research on this over the last couple of days. I really want to do this myself, it sounds like a good project and I think I'm capable enough to do it.
However, I think it's a good time to replace my water pump / thermostat housing as well, as it has been slowly leaking for the last 10 months or so. As much reading and youtube I've watched, I don't feel confident enough that I can handle that job.
I asked for a quote for both services from a local VW/Audi shop that I trust. They said carbon cleaning is $568, water pump is $700, can do them both at the same time for about $1000. Pricey for sure, sourcing all the parts I'd need to do both jobs myself I came up with the following.
Air compressor with hose/accessories, media blaster, walnut shells, shop vacuum, picks/tools - ~$300 (harbor freight, with coupons)
Bimmerhelp VW/Audi vacuum attachment and hose - $70
Waterpump / Thermostat kit - $226
G13 coolant - $20
Intake manifold gasket - $20
So roughly $600 for all the parts and tools for me to do it myself. Granted things like the air compressor and shop vac would be investments, but otherwise I'm only looking at about a $400 difference to have it all professionally done. I'd love to do it myself, it would of course be cheaper, a fun project, and give me something to do while stuck at home. But the challenge of the water pump is really driving me towards leaving it to the pros. Along with the risk of me screwing something up with the valve cleaning, or just not doing a good enough job.