TAPPET COVER GASKET REPLACEMENT

[Tbird9140]

While replacing the tappet cover gasket on my 2000 4WD 3500 Ram Automatic (VP44) (Thanks Mopar1973Man as I used your 2 great "How to" posts extensively to replace the gasket),  I came across two lines near the back of the tappet cover which are currently not hooked up to anything.  Before I complete the installation, and before I seal everything up,  I thought that I should ask the Forum if these two lines should be connected to something that I have overlooked.  I have attached a photo with a yellow note pad as background.  One line appears to be an electrical plug with up to 4 connections.  It stands out in the photo.  The other, at the top of the photo and barely on the yellow pad, appears to be a plugged or broken vacuum line. It seems to have a black 1 inch piece of plastic around the end.  It is not obvious what these lines are supposed to be connected to.  I guess it is also possible that during my removal of the tappet cover, I somehow broke or disconnected one or both of these lines.  I certainly was careful and tried not to do this, but I must admit that the tappet cover was a bit difficult to remove as I chose not to disconnect the 3,5, and 6 injection lines from the engine.  I am hopeful that these two lines are simply a function of Chrysler using  generic vacuum and electrical harnesses to accommodate all vehicles, some with options that don't apply to my truck.  If anyone knows the answer, or use of the two lines,  I would appreciate knowing.  I feel that it will be a bit disconcerting driving down the highway knowing that there are to lines under the hood which are not connected to anything!  Maybe one of them is necessary for a panic break stop.

[dripley]

If I am not mistaken that is a data point connect and the plug that seals it. My Edge comp uses that connection, but from the factory it is not connected to anything. 

[Tbird9140]

Thanks dripley.  Any thoughts on the vacuum line or is that plastic circular thing on the end just the way they normally  block off unused vacuum hoses?

[Dieselfuture]

14 hours ago, Tbird9140 said:

Thanks dripley.  Any thoughts on the vacuum line or is that plastic circular thing on the end just the way they normally  block off unused vacuum hoses?

That may be a vent

[dripley]

looks like cap to me not sure. I think has more unused vacuum outlets than use ones.

[Haggar]

The vent line for the 4wd vacuum switch comes up behind the head and ends with a black filter/cap.  This was to prevent dirt and debris (and mud dobbers) from plugging the vent line and rendering the cad system useless.  That could be what you are looking at.

 

Hag

[Mopar1973Man]

CANBus connector with weather cap in place. Looks exactly like what my truck is setup for with a Quadzilla plugged in there.