Yes, I did find evidence of furry critters and this is not the first time these pests have invaded where they weren't welcome(they nested on my in-line 4 between the spark plug wires and chewed through the insulation)...so then you would say it is pretty likely they chewed a critical wire? Ok, well no easy fix but that is ok...at least I know what I will be doing tomorrow.
Thank you
PS the spark plug wire looks to be in good shape from what I can see...until it gets lost behind/under the tank.