Too Hot???

[MattPSU]

I'm trying to figure out if my truck is running too hot.

1972 - 350 auto, 180* thermostat - it's also about 85+ in SC today.

Took it for about a 20 minute drive tonight - the second short drive after having everything apart - and it seemed really hot when I got back. The temp gauge was about 1/3 of the way up - creeping towards straight up. When I got back the hoses were nearly too hot to touch and solid as can be. It's the original radiator, but all new hoses. I did shave my heater, and I have a hose in it's place (running from the intake into the water pump).

The first drive last week heat stained my intake. It was suggested that I add the heat riser plates (?) which I did this past week. While at it, I also switched from the 195* thermostat to a 180* (I also drilled 3 holes in it).

After today's drive, the stain is starting to show back up and it seems to be really hot to the touch. I never noticed how hot it was before I tore it all down, but I think I would have noticed it being this hot.

It also shook when I came to a stop and it stalled when I finally did stop. Not sure if this is related or not.

Is it too hot? Or is there another problem? Suggestions?

Thanks - Matt