Secondary Air Injection Bypass kit (2008 Tundra/Sequoia)

Hello, I have a 2008 Toyota Tundra (technically it's a Sequoia, Limited) w/ 5.7L 3URFE engine, 148k miles. The previous owner installed a Hewitt bypass kit on it about a year ago before I bought it, but the block off plates were never installed. The check engine light had remained off since the installation of the bypass kit (minus the block off plates) until now, but about a week ago the check engine light came on for the first time since I've owned the vehicle (previous owner said CE light did not come back on for him since installing the bypass kit), and it is giving the code P2446 which is Secondary Air Injection valve stuck closed on Bank 1. Could this be due to the block off plates never being installed? Do you believe that if I simply install the block off plates and clear the code that it will continue to work like normal once again, or could there be further issues with the system since the block off plates have not been installed this whole time? I just wanted to get more input before I proceed further, especially since I have seen on this forum that many people break off the exhaust bolts/studs when trying to install the block off plates...even when going above and beyond with many methods and patience to try to prevent that from happening!

Thanks for your input!

 

I would call Hewitt Tech. From what I have seen on the forum, they are helpful.

 

The plates can be installed on the top end of the tubes at the back of the intake if it's too rusty at the manifold ends. It's more work, but can be accomplished. I would install them and clear the code.