On some of the older trucks there is no ground strip, and the grounding point is a post on the parking brake mechanism. It should be a black wire.
The panel definitely fits in behind the lip, but its sometimes a PIA to work it into place. Also make sure you figure out how the spring-loaded transmission indicator works and connects to the steering column, so that it moves back and forth when you move the shifter. If the cord on the indicator is missing you can use nylon fishing line to replace it.
Bruce