DAMN buddy so WHY have you not checked the NSS? That is the ONE thing that is the most susceptable to DAMAGE, and is something I suggested earlier.
That wire can....
get tangled up and melted on the exhaust
get caught up in the kick-down
get unhooked due to ice, mud, etc, and various mechanics activities, get fouled "down there in the grease."
This would be the no1 suspect with a great big mug shot
'E sure looks guilty to me..........