Not sure if anyone has addressed this, but the "hot spot" in your manifold is the exhaust runner crossover. It will discolor paint and will be very hot. Should not have any effect on operating temp. Coolant only runs through the front crossover where the t-stat is mounted. Good thing you're in S.F./Bay area, imagine what your temps would be in the summer in the Sacto valley where I'm at!
Thanks for that, this is good info.
I was considering pulling the manifold to inspect, but if there are no cooling passages there that explains the heat.
Cool the engine to 190-200 and that hot spot should not be getting as hot.
