Do these starters have the insulated wire that runs across the brushes inside? Mine once shorted, got one brush hold down hot enough it didn't push the brush tight onto the armature. Darn thing would still start the truck if the engine was cold though!
After reading all this, I look forward to seeing a pic too.
Just think, you'll laugh about this someday. My weak spring had me stymied for months, and months. Maybe not for a few days though. You'll get it, just have to keep plugging away.
