Do they all run hotter than 280's? Mine doesn't have the belly pan or the fan shroud my 280 has, I figured that was the reason, temp gauge needle sits on the "F". That's not too hot is it? Was on the right leg of the "M" in TEMP until I put in a new water pump and thermostat. 2nd question, why is one of the two 1/2" pipes coming out the back of my breather box tapped up? The other goes to the valve cover. Thanks for any replies.

F is about were mine sits. Its not really that accurate anyways. Can also depend on what temp your thermostate operates at. There are a number of things that can make it run hotter, but I would be inclined to get an accurate measurement before replacing anything.