that is a k&n precharger i put onto the 06, we have a few of those here, there like $15, we had a drycharger specially made for mrphotoman (dont worry its in with your kit) and can order more of those now (~$20). we worked with the company that makes them for k&n designing one specifically for the filter we are using (did not exist in the size we needed 2 weeks ago).

again, do i think they are needed? no
do i have one on our srt6? no
can i get them for you guys if it makes you feel warm and fuzzy? sure

if at the quarter carwash with the powersprayer i would turn the engine off before blasting the water at the intake. i would also turn off the car before doing it with the factory intake as well. i would even turn off the engine in that scenario even with the drycharger cover on there.