Hello all, thanks for taking the time to help a guy out! Got a fun(?) game for ya'll ... Where doesn this black cable go??
I recently reassembled my 1998 Ranger XLT 4.0 Manual OHV after replacing the Driver's Side valve cover gasket. Tear down was about a month ago, unfortunately my "before pictures" aren't detailed enough to show where this one simple plug goes (photos and link to

video

below).

Hints:
Truck runs, but is now having slight idle issues I didn't have before tear down/reassembly;
a) semi rough idle but does not stall out.
b) engine surges a bit at idle, smooths out after running a little while but doesn't fully go away.
b) oil pressure guage doesn't read at all, but oil was full the entire time.

Additional hint: The plug is the same size that fits the exterior nipple of the IAC, but I'm guessing it doesn't go there??

What I've done since reassembly:
a) Cleaned Mass Airflow Sensor
b) Checked IAC for function
c) Changed Oil







And finally here's a link to a video that shows where the cable splits off from another cluster of cables, running along the Right Side of the Left Valve Cover:


I appreciate your help ahead of time. I appologize for my lack of knowledge in this arena, as this is the first real big engine work I've done. I'm glad to attempt it on my Ranger. I don't want to give her up but she's pushing 330,000 miles. Round of Whiskey on me if ya'll help me get her to reach 350,000!


Ken from LA

 

Kinda looks like the oil pressure sensor wire, which would explain your lack of a reading on the gauge. Look down around the oil filter, should be pretty close to that.

As for that nipple on your idle air control valve, you're supposed to have a black vent cap there. Either you knocked it off, or it fell off on it's own. Not sure if that would cause your issues, but if it's letting in unmetered air, then it could. Look up a new IAC for your truck and you'll see the vent cap I'm referring to.