Yes. I always tried to secure the sensor so that the snake couldn't move it around. Are those temps you are stating from the thermostat?

And you do need to have a hide on the hot side. Preferable identical hides, so you know the snake is choosing the spot for thermoregulation and not security.

The problem with such a large tank is that all that open space causes stress. Ball pythons are shy, secretive creatures. All that open space is just a source of stress. You should be able to fix that by packing the cage full of hides, and even some greenery. (or heck even crumpled up newspaper will work)

Best of luck getting everything situated. Oh and yes the link worked for me.