Exploded!!!!

[Yankee516]

will only start by jumping accross the solenoid posts

That is your BIGGEST clue... I'd get a new one and be done with it, assuming you've checked all the wiring to the starter is perfect first, and the wiring from the starter-mounted solenoid to the starter motor is good.

Nice work, man!

 

[Sonny454]

Well after a few weeks of fixing every little thing ( reason it wouldnt start with the key is the guys at the salvage your forgot to tell me they took the engine out of an explorer sport 5 speed...Thank god i saved the old wiring harness)...now i have a leaking Fuel pressure regulater and NO ONE has the o ring..have to buy a $100 fuel pressure regulater for a 25 cent o-ring