[Jimmy Buoy]

water pressure on smart gauge is reading 2.1 ... is that sufficient

Not sure what the reading should be. My boat was the first year 8.1's were offered and it didn't come with smart craft displays, only warning beeps.

 

[Jimmy Buoy]

170 seems a bit hot for the 8.1, mine have always been 160 or under. You should be able to put your hand on the top of the risers while the boat is operating. It will be hot, but not too hot to hold your hand on it for more than a few seconds. A temp gun is also your friend to get a more accurate reading too as gauges are not always the most accurate. It could also be the water pressure sensor itself on the water pump. They can be affected by sand/silt and fail to properly detect water pressure. Maybe try temporarily disconnecting the sensor wire and see if that makes a difference.