OK... Here's the skinny. The part is used to reduce the startup surge on AC electric motors. My "buddy" had his refrigerator repaired and this came out of it. He fessed up after I threatened him with no coffee (my coffee isn't your normal American swill).
Btw, the back of Smith gauges are filled with this type of fitting, so it fit, along with the crud it was covered with.
Sorry for the false alarm, but I got a kick out of your answers.
Best regards to all who gave it a shot.
Bfk