94 e320 Pin 14 Code 2 = BIG $3,600 - Need Suggestions - Please!

When using Arthur Dalton's code tester produced Pin 14 codes 3, 5, 14 and the infamous Code "2" [Too many "or" alternatives for me] I simply made an appointment with my understanding Benz dealer. I pay the diagnostic fee [$95 this time] and they give me the bad news. Usually I buy the parts and DYI, occasionally I let them do the work. We have a pretty good relationship [I make lame jokes, do car talk and they ask me if i'm sitting down].

This time they gave me the BIG BAD NEWS.

Quote from the report:

139994 Short Test, Codes for EA Actuator, EA Control Module,
Estimate Part #0001414925 $1587 Part #245456532 $2058.50

So the Benz service man says "be sure you get the exact part numbers." However, he was surprised that it runs so well with these malfunctioning components.

The question[s] are:
Could the Benz service tech have made a mistake?
Do they have to be the EXACT part numbers?
What's a fair price to pay for each "used" part?
What's involved in R&Ring the components?
Where are all those Benzs lost to Katrina, and more importantly will flood waters destroy the aforementioned parts?

All suggestions are appreciated.

Bob