RE: Savage X 4.6 running temp?
Nothing too bad with 280. I've always tried to aim for 240 myself as a general basher. It's a bit hot. I would try to find a guide on sealing the engine up. My engine needed sealing very shortly after break in and it solved the problem for years. The engine not being sealed properly also could be the problem you're having not shifting into second gear.
-Mike