I bought a spare solenoid for the Skytech LS starter and the plastic part in the front is broken. I don't think this is normal and it should be intact, correct?
I have never replaced these so I don't know what the original looks like.
Do a search for "crown vic" on this forum and you will find all sorts of good information for replacing that solenoid with one from an auto parts store that fits in a Ford "crown vic". My guess is that yours got dropped and that little plastic part was broken. They normally come shipped with a card board collar around that part to protect it. Perhaps that collar was missing.
I found a replacement solenoid for $30 on Amazon, or in stock at the local auto parts store for $39 depending on how fast you need it. Quick and easy to replace.