I need help with my 1989 Chevy Silverado. (Electrical)?

[freak]

I have had my silverado for a year now and had very few problems with it. My truck started just fine this morning. I drove it to work. I started and drove it at 2pm and again, it was fine. I got in it at 6pm and when I tried to start it, my instrument panel lights and gauges came on, but the truck would not start, turn over, click. Nothing. I have no security features that would inhibit the starter. I popped the hood and saw smoke billowing from the drivers side near the fire wall although I couldn't find it's origin. This thing is a paperweight at the moment. Tried jumping it but I don't even have idiot lights.
Strange that my headlights come on and are bright. Radio works. Horn works. Any Ideas?

 

[michaelsmaniacal]

Solenoid burned up. Locate the solenoid on the firewall, and use an INSULATED screwdriver to arc the two terminals. It should start. Once it does, scoot your butt down to pep boys and get a new solenoid, you can replace it right there in the parking lot. 2 nuts for the electrical connection, and 2 screws for the mount.

 

[rayzinside]

My guess is that you have an electrical short and your wires heated up and smoked when you turned your ignition key on. First disconnect your battery. Find out what smoked. Check for burnt wires, and ignition module. Check the wire's underside for shorts to chassis or to each other. If electrical is good reconnect the (charged) battery and try starting looking for smoke. Also check your fuses to make sure that none are over fused. Relays can smoke also.