1st off... Thanks for the tips, tricks, things that work to help out a newbie. Learned a lot.

Did quite a bit of tapping on the divider plates. Clearance is now ~ 1/16".
The tapping also kinda flattened the 2 plates, better than what it was.
Did a bit of grinding, esp around the lower rad hose area.
Seemed like the back plate sat a bit proud in this area.
Ended up installing a 180F stat(tested ok), new upper/lower hoses.
Gotter all back together yesterday, 50/50 mix on a-freeze.
In garage, gotter up to temp, saw flow thru radiator. After market gauge shows 185-190F.
Had 1 leaker...forgot to tighten a bolt(embarrassed-grin).
Wife and I took ~ 100 mile cruise, mostly open country roads. Gauge showed 190F.
The little traffic we did have, peaked just short of 200F, dropped back to 190F once we started moving.

While I believe it's a good fix, I'll still be watching the temp gauge.

Thanks again. Appreciate the help.

Had fun.....don t. .....