Pictures may be for reference only, but should clearly state that, as
some do. Part number should get you THAT part. But some vendors sell
aftermarket substitutes under the same number.

I once ordered by number the Bosch plugs I'd been getting for many years
(the 3 electrode) not knowing they were discontinued. The vendor sent me
a substitute, didn't even change the part number on the invoice. (How
about sending an email and asking the customer?)

Next order was a new Bosch fuel pump. It arrived in an unsealed plastic
bag, no Bosch box, no end caps on the pump. (Is it new?) When I called
about it, they said they do that sometimes. So after many years, two
strikes and my business now goes elsewhere. Part of online ordering is
learning the vendors and not just the parts.  MHO

On 6/19/2013 12:36 PM, bernie wrote:
> Am I being unrealistic to expect that I would receive the part pictured
> online and referred to by the part number.
> Input would be appreciated.