Well I went took the starter out AGAIN, got it tested and it checked out. I decided to redo the grounds while I was tearing everything up. went to put new starter back in and the top bolt wont go in, only makes it about a fifth of the way in and stops. tried swapping bottom and top bolt same problem. I then took everything back out and cleaned everything, tried to thread the bolt in by hand with no luck. I'm pretty sure this car is telling me it hates me, or I haven't learned the LR whisper yet. I'm calling it quits for today, maybe try again tomorrow. I dont know, we may need some time apart.

Thanks everyone for your help, and speedy diagnostics and ideas. I may be defeated but I am still very much appreciative of your posts.