Modified thermostat tested again & installed. Burped the system AGAIN!!!
*&^&(*%^^
Still overheating. (BTW, checked the 2nd thermostat too - it's working but it musta been a much higher rating - water had to be boiling).
Next step will be to remove hoses & flush system to see what comes out.
I'd just hotwire the fans but it's bothering me that the lower hose still isn't getting hot.