i just realized that im using a PIC18LF6585, not an 18F6585. from what i have read in the dtasheet, the only difference is that the LF will work at lower voltages, but i think it will still work at 5V.. does anyone know if thats true or not?? if its not meant to run at 5V, then that would explain my problem...

i dont get any heat now, but it pulls my voltage down to about 2V when the PIC is in it...