I just read about a recall. Although the manufacturing time line of the part does not really line up, there MIGHT be a possibility...
Problem
Certain replacement k&n fuel performance kits, p/nos. 57-1509,
57-1511, 57-1511-1, 57-1517, 57-1517-1, 57-1527, and 57-1530. also, a
small percentage of these kits were sold under the mopar performance
parts brand name (p/nos. p5007069 and p5007070). all kits were
manufactured from april 20, 1999, through september 23, 2004. these
assemblies were manufactured as replacement equipment for certain dodge
pickup trucks and suvs. a small piece of material from the tube wall
could be sucked into the engine throttle body, which could cause the
throttle to become jammed in the open position.
Consequence
A jammed open throttle could cause unintended acceleration of the
vehicle, possibly resulting in a crash or increased stoping distances
when braking.
Resolution
K&n will provide owners with a free repair kit along with repair instructions. the recall began on april 20, 2006.
Component
Engine and engine cooling
Notes
This recall only pertains to replacement k&n fuel performance kits
and has no relation to any original equipment installed on dodge
vehicles manufactured by daimlerchrysler.customers may contact the
national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline
at 1-888-327-4236 (tty: 1-800-424-9153); or go to
http://www.safercar.gov.
NHTSA Campaign Number
06E024000