Issue with a part/part number
 

Hey All,

I have a 2002 mercury sable with a 3.0 24v (vin 1MEFM55SX2G65XXXX), and I have a part question: it blew a hole in the steel coolant line ("water pump tube outlet") on the front of the engine. I looked up the part at fordparts.com, and there are two parts; 2F12 8A519-AA (discontinued) and 1F12 8A519-BA. The parts guy at the local dealership said the new part number replaces the old part number, but there was some question as to whether the new part was a direct replacement for the old part/number. I have had instances in the past where the updated part has an extra nipple or tube on it, which is not a big deal, but I would like to know if the new part/number will fit on this particular vehicle. The part that is available is a special order piece, so if I order it, i've bought it regardless of whether or not it actually fits. I realize this is a fairly specific question, but if anyone has been down this particular road, any help or insight is GREATLY appreciated.