Ok, Scott, this is what I have, and I think it will help to explain what you have.
First, there are two cables at the alternator. I can show one here, but I can't get the second one into the picture. Both cables are mounted on that main stud.
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Next, I have the cable that goes from the alternator to the solenoid on the wheelwell.
This pic shows both, that cable, and the cable from the solenoid to the battery.
When you look at the cable that comes from the alternator, there are two fusible links in there. I think those are the fusible links you replaced with the max fuse.
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Now an overall view, showing as best I can, all 3 cables.
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Were I you, I'd replace the cable that you have coming from the alternator to the max fuse.
And I would also put a cable directly from the battery, not to the max fuse, but to the solenoid at the same connection post.
Do that, your truck will start and run.
THEN we can get to work on the headlights, and other lights.