i have a 98 ram 1500 and some idiot ran it over a huge stump today and ripped off to black cases that were located just behind the passenger side door along the frame rail. does anyone know what those are and what they do?

 

They are part of your Evaporitve Emissions Control System or EVAP for short. The black case is a charcoal canister that stores fuel vapors from the fuel tank and fuel system. I would have it repaired ASAP or it won't pass a safety inspection and will probably cause the engine to run rough if the purge system is open to the atomosphere.

 

indeed

 

I would plug the vacuum line under there until you get the canister replaced... its sucking dirt into that valve periodicly

 

Yes, verily.

 

And dont let IDIOTS drive your truck!

 

well i will certainly not be letting anyone behind the wheel of that truck again! well thank you for your help. now i gotta get the new parts and put them on.