The panel that separates the freezer from the refrigerator was burning up. Just on the outside panel when I open the doors. What is causing this?
That panel or strip between the two compartments is called a “mullion” strip. It is supposed to be warm but not HOT.
When it does get hot, it is usually due to a clogged condenser coil and a condenser fan motor running slow or not at all.
Depending on your model number, you will need to access the back of the refrigerator, remove the rear lower access panel and check and clean all the lint, dust , and debris.
Good Luck,
Often it is dirty condenser coils or the condenser/compressor fan is not running (poor air circulation).
Also some unit have an eco/energy switch. This turns a heater on/off which is between the sections and prevents condensation in high humidity conditions. If your unit has one turn it off.
It’s quite likely that your condensor fan is not working. Check it for continuity with a multimeter set at ohms X10. Unplug your fridge and pull off the terminal to the fan (back side, bottom of fridge). Touch the two outer posts on the fan with the multimeter. It should read somewhere between 0 and infinity. If it doesn’t, the fan is bad. If it’s not this, you will need an electrical schematic, and identify the switches, relays, or whatever activates the fan. Good luck.