I have just purchased a 2005 durango with the 5.7 hemi engine in it, and while changing the air filter i noticed a hole in this piece. It is attached to the air hose running from the air filter to the throttle body. it is a molded piece of plastic that sets on top of the fan shroud. Does anyone know what this piece is/does, and if the hole will affect anything? I have a copy of the service manual and can not find anything about it. I have added pictures of the part to help understand what i am referring to.
Thanks in advance for any help.

 

It helps to quiet the incoming air. It kind of like a muffler. A piece of Duct tape to seal that hole woudl be a good idea so dirt/ sand get its in the motor. That part is after the filter so you want it sealed. I would also find away to stop it from wearing out. Maybe some double sided foam.

 

I have the same part on my AEM cold air intake, so I do not think it is a 'muffler', but more for the MAF,
FF

Mine is a breather hose for the crankcase......

 

replace the intake with a k&n 57 cai and you gain 17.5 hp as there spec show