We solved the mystery over on gmt400.com it's an electric vacuum pump that is inline between the engine and brake booster. Not sure what all applications got it; our '06 SS's didn't have them.
Yea, if a problem or a concern is SOLVED, the OP needs to go back to the #1 post and edit the thread title to include the word SOLVED. That encourages other members to read the entire thread for the info.