VVEL Actuator Motor question
 

I was in the process of replacing a number of old gaskets & wires (rodents chewed through quite a few) and in process of getting to the knock sensor wires, I figured I could remove the black actuator motors on the VVEL ladder to get some clearance. Turns out that was probably a mistake.

Question for you guys - how big of a mistake is this? I haven't turned the car back on yet, is this a part i can just screw back on? Or should i just go buy a new VVEL assembly now?

The things i've read about disturbing the sensor and motor is pretty horrific.