Hi,
I would recommand you using jetty with solr, Other than this if you can't ping solr this indicates there is something worng with configuration.
If moodle can't reach solr and moodle developer debug is turned on, it will display you a warning over course search page. If everything is fine it will display advance course search form.
You can skype me and I can have a look for you.
My skype handle is - shashitechno
See you!