I got a 76 shovle-stock-....is the coil neg. term or pos term on top? theres no markings

I am almost certain the positve goes on the top.  Most of the oldies I see have been modified in some way or use replacement coils with the terminals on the side.

I did find a pic of a shovel and cropped this area for you.  I am not sure if it is exactly a 1976 though.

pretty sure that's it. Just called a buddy with a shovel and he confirmed the hot is on the top terminal.

thnx bro...same as mine