if the cable was lose on the starter its posible it got shifted enough to ground its self out.I had this happen a couple days ago.The top of the starter glowed orange and the cable was smoking.Itightened the cable on the starter by first tightening a nut on the lug and then puting on a cable and another nut.I had no noticable damage.
1942 1\2 Ton
1951 1\2 Ton 55 willys cj-5
1954 and 59 Cushman Scooter
1960 Biscayne Sedan
1965 G/10 panel van
1966 C/30 Grizzly Motorhome
You know you're a 'Bolter when your daily driver is older than you are... My progress pics 
