53chevyman,
Because you have a new engine in an old pickup ('53 ??) the wiring isn't a straightforward sort of deal. If the wiring is working, but the engine won't turn over when you twist the ignition switch, it could be the battery, cables or starter solenoid or starter, or as you mention, the switch itself.
If you turn the key ON, you can jump a screwdriver across the large terminal on the solenoid and the small terminal marked S and that should turn the engine over....if the battery is good and the solenoid is good and the starter is good.
Do you see all the "if's" in the equation. If a friend has a remote starter switch, it attaches to the same locations. The big battery connection on the solenoid and the small terminal marked S. There are two small terminals, and both could have wires. On is usually marked R while the one you want is marked S.
Without basic knowledge, this is a real tough subject. Charge the battery or get a known good one. Clean and tighten the cables..at the battery and starter. Solenoids on these rigs are famous for sticking. With all those things done, try to start it while someone taps on the top of the solenoid.
Funky wiring on a truck like this would have to be addressed one step at a time.
See if any of this helps, update your profile to show exactly what truck you have and come back with more specific questions.
Good luck. Maybe someone has a nice diagram of a V8/AD wiring lash-up.
Stuart
