I don't have an AP cage, but do use RHPs exclusively. Mine are all mounted with no space in between the ceiling and the panel.
I would say you should fix that immediately as the panels DO get hot and the situation sounds dangerous.
Post a picture or 2 and maybe somebody can assist you. At this point I'd remove the snake until you have that fixed.
Did you call AP? They will have an idea of what to do. It's possible you mounted the panel improperly.