Tahoe Running Hotter Than Normal

[Acevetss]

I've searched quite a bit and I see some similar problems but none have an answer to the problem.

 

2001 Tahoe 5.3, tow package, 115k. I replaced the thermostat, coolant tank cap, and hoses in Oct and it's been running fine until the last month or so. I have a Scangauge II that I've used for the last few years so I know the normal operating range is 200 or less. But now it's started running in the 205 to 215 range and once it got up to 230 before it came back down. Even then the dash gauge did not move past 210. The trans temp is also going up to 200+ now which is the bigger concern to me.

 

The thermostat is opening, no leaks, anywhere, serp belt is new, even tried a new fan clutch but no change, the old one was good. Water pump is not leaking but I could replace it anyway with the mileage. Radiator could also be clogged but I didn't see any issues when I flushed it in Oct. I hate to replace good parts if it's something else but I don't know what it would be.

 

I am hoping someone who has had this problem can reply with what the fix for them was. I'm leaning towards the water pump and new thermostat so any other thoughts would be greatly appreciated.