How can you test a starter solenoid on a 72 Ford Gran Torino?

I believe with a good battery, when you turn the key you should just hear a click sound. Tha =t sound is the solenoid trying to get the starter going. I am just going thru this right now. I am removing my starter (72 gran torino). but the big problem is removing the steering linkage first. I need to dissassemble the steering linkage to get the starter out. The nuts at all the ball joints of the linkage have been removed, but i cannot get the bolts to budge. ???