Well at this point we are gathering info and maybe saving bundle rip out/untaping. So when both ends of "dimmer" wire are loose, do a continuity test on it.
If it shows open, I'm think of leaving it abandoned, and as you said, install a new direct wire. Maybe no need to keep undoing bundle. At least for this fix. See what you think. I just wonder why it seems to meander. But the factory does that sometimes. The best avenue is to follow it and say "Oh yeah" is goes there but in a round about way.

DID YOU SWITCH YOUR QUESTION? BIG EDIT? OR AM I HAVING A SIEZURE?

I already have Myasthenia Gravis


Right is right, even if everyone is against it, and wrong is wrong, even if everyone is for it. - William Penn