possible overheating problem

[sharp67]

Ive recently built a new engine for my 67 Camaro, and I am having concerns with my coolant temp. I have a 383 with afr heads runing 9.80 compression. The block has been thourougly cleaned, has a new afco radiator, new mezierre mechanical water pump, new t stat that I believe is set for 195 degrees I have drilled 3 bypass holes in my t stat. I have an black magic electric fan assembly. I am using a auto meter electric water temp gauge. I have installed the sender in the drivers side head towards the front. I am getting readings pushing 240-245. Is the temperture reading different based on sender location? Is head mount or manifold mount a better choice? what are safe temp readings? is that "safe" number different based on sender location? any help here would be appreciated. Thanks Jay.

[CarlC]

Verify that the gauge is accurate. An IR gun on the upper radiator hose is a quick way to find out if it's in the ballpark, or stick a candy thermometer down the radiator cap opening while idling.

[Gordz32]

I had the same issue on the bbc we put in the chevelle. Move the sender to the port on the front of the manifold and move your fan temp switch if using one, to the cylinder head. I now have normal readings. I think the sender pics up the extra head from the cyl heads and if you put ur fan switch in there, they'll just come on earlier( Not a bad thing)

[sharp67]

so it sounds like it might be normal for temperture on the head to be higher. Is this correct? what would be a safe temp on the head?