Ah, thanks for clarifying that. I had started a thread back in January (No activity from starter) regarding this wire and assumed it was a ground. Since I was not corrected on my statement I thought I was correct in assuming it was a ground (although if I was corrected, then it went over my head). It seems odd that a hot wire like that would be uninsulated. I suppose since it's only hot when the starter is activated then it's not a big deal. It does seem to be something of a design flaw. Since I started researching this back in January, I've found a number of people have had the same problem. 

BTW, good to see you back. While I'm basically a junior member to this list, I've come to understand a lot of folks here put a great deal of stock into what you have to say, and have certainly missed you. Welcome back!
 
Mark K
1986 GL/2WD/4SPD "Old Gold"
1990 Carat/2WD/Auto "Carol"

On Feb 14, 2010, at 2:25 PM, Michael Collum wrote:

> That uninsulated wire between the starter body and the solenoid is not a
> ground.  It is the main wire from the solenoid to the starter.
> 
> I have repaired a starter by putting a short piece of battery cable where
> that wire goes.
> 
> Mike
>