The saga continues. relocating the steam vent had zero effect. I stumbled onto a
Scoggins Dickey video discussing the differences in the thermostat housing and the importance of using the right housing or it could lead to overheating issues. Well...I didn't use the housing that came with the Holley kit because the opening point directly into the fender so I swapped that for a swivel style to improve the angle. I'm wondering if this could be the issue. I can't the one that came with the kit so I ordered a replacement. I'll see if this helps.