7.4 running too hot?

[Baby Blue]

1998 SCR
7.4 mercruiser carbed
bravo 3 drive
3rd season with the boat

since we've owned the boat it's normal operating temp has always been around 180 degrees.
last off season I did all the bellows and maintenance items along with impeller.
first couple times out still ran at 180, colder water though mid May Lake Erie off Cleveland (go cavs baby!!)
anyway... this season the circulation pump went out so I replaced that and ever since it seems to run slightly hotter. I'd guess around 185-190.
Tough to find a clear answer on normal operating temp.
I just put a new 160 degree state in it this week and same results.
I have put my hand on the exhaust pipe exiting the boat and hold it there for about 3 seconds before it's too hot.
I ordered an IR temp gun to check those temps but hasn't come in yet.
Temp guage was new 2 years ago.
questions are:
1. does this temp seem too hot? if so what are some operating temps from members with similar set up?
2. I was thinking about backflushing the unit but can't find any procedures on that process. Done this on cars many times but never and boat.
any info and advise appreciated.
thanks, BB