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could it be exhaust port design/location that makes that section hotter?

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Absolutely, I am pretty confident in saying that's what causes it....two exhaust ports right next to each other. There is coolant flow in the block below it, and coolant flow in the head above it, but the two aren't connected.

Why not? No clue there

If connected per dwayne welder's comments, that would probably take care of most of it. That + the external plumbing is attacking it two ways, and bet that would do it 110%. Great food for thought there, thank you.

As far as getting a real cam, c'mon now, I'm running around on the street with a .631 solid roller these days

If I get a minute later might put up some pictures so folks understand what I am talking about....but it seems like many of us would already be familiar with it (?)

Thanks for the input all, might have to put these ideas to work sometime.

It seems like a weak point in the engine design that usually is not addressed....but maybe it should be, even for mild engines, just for reliability's sake.