Door handle blues - 1987 type 44

[Dave C]

The front left (drivers ) door handle needs to be replaced on my 1987
5kq... cold weather and ice have revealed the weakness.  Could Audi
have made these mechanisms any more complicated?

My goal is to fix it properly without spending more $$ than necessary.
 I'd like to transfer the lock cylinder and/or tumblers and continue
using my old key.  I think the OEM handles are made in Germany and
prices seem to be in the $35-50 range.  I also see there are non OEM
handles available, made in Canada, Belgium, and maybe elsewhere for
about half that price.

Are any of these improved/redesigned, maybe actually better, more
durable, than the original?  If they've been redesigned, will I be
able to use my old lock cylinder/tumblers in the redesigned version?

I also have a problem with the plastic connectors on the rods that
link to the door handle.  ETKA calls these "operating rod".  The clips
on mine are broken.  The number on these plastic parts is 443 837 121
but ETKA does not list it.  A search of the archives turns up other
posts where people ask about replacement of this part but I could not
find any reply indicating the part is available separately.  Does
anyone know of a source?  Has anyone found a satisfactory method to
repair the clip?

I found one post where Phil Payne says to try part number 443 827 121
instead but ETKA doesn't list that either.

- -
Dave C.