Suse Linux should give you the option of performing a repair installation. It should allow you to skip some of the more time consuming tasks. Before you change your system it may be a good idea to get a live CD and test the changes there first (keep notes of the changes). That would keep your system in working condition.
I second the idea of using O'Reilly´s books as reference. You may have to invest some work to find one that suits your level of knowledge.