yes if you dont remove the positive terminal off the battery before unistalling the starter or installing it the lead going to the starter will be hot.
you've got your wires crossed on your starter,
No
You need to replaced the starter or the alternator.
Either Discharged battery or poor/loose battery or starter connections or solenoid contact need replacing
What is the trick for removing the starter, from the engine, I have the starter unbolted but has a small compartment that stops me removing it from the engine?
battery may not be the problem check your starter motor and ignition switch
did you check your battery and alternator?
Weak battery Bad starter Loose or corroded battery cables Bad neutral switch
You shorted it out, try protecting the wire ends from touching anything metal next time. the wire ends on the battery?
It could but, have the battery tested before you purchase a new starter.
Low battery voltage will cause clicks, and it is also possible that the starter solenoid is too worn in which case replacing the whole starter is best.
Most likely the selonoid on the starter motor needs replacing