Lower unit heating up

[Robtroe]

Have a problem with the lower unit on my 1977 85 hp Johnson outboard heating up to a point where you can't touch the housing. I have water applied to the intake slots and have replaced the oil in the lower gear case. What's next? Any help will be greaty appreciated.

[boats.net]

For the lower unit to heat up like that, you either have a bind internally (gearcase) or excessive exhaust pressure.