Hi guys,
First thanks to 83dodgeswb4x4 and Lugnuts for replying. Lugnuts is correct about the solenoid being just as he described and it does light up in the crank position. Now about the ground. I removed the solenoid and cleaned the rusty firewall down to shiny metal and gave it a brand new bolt but it still would not start. I even connected the solenoid bracket to ground with alligator clips and section of wire. My wife is out and while out will get some dielectric grease but I doubt that will help. The old solenoid was connected with two bolts into the firewall but the bracket on the new solenoid does not align with both holes but again I wonder if this matters? I think this means the new solenoid is not working. I'll exchange it tomorrow and report here how I make out. Anything else I should or could do?

 

Just for grins, see if there is continuity between the small terminals. I have seen some marine/industrial solenoids where one small terminal is the ground. If that's the case you'll have to exchange it for sure. Tell 'em you need one for a '69 Ford pickup lol. Of course they'll probably ask if it's 4wd w/ A/C or something stupid.

 

I tried to send this response or one very like it but it doesn't seem to have made it so I'm trying again. There is continuity between the small terminals. Back to the parts place today. Thanks again for all your help. I'll report back when I know the next chapter.