You know FGT,It might have been an air pocket up at your thermostat that caused the overheating,and when you pulled the thermostat you cleared the system,maybe try again with the thermostat and see what happens?

1953 Chevy Two-Ton
In the Stovebolt Gallery
More pix on Photobucket

Be careful calling yourself a expert,because an "EX" is a hasbeen and a"SPERT" is a drip under pressure.