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Did you get a starter for a manual or auto trans? I believe there's a difference in the length of the nose.
If the OP's F250 has a 360 or 390, there's only one starter for A/T & M/T .. It's the same for 1965/71 FE cars, 1965/76 FE F100/350's.
But, if the truck has a 240 or 300 I-6, A/T starter is different than M/T starter.
If the starter drive lands on a spot where the flexplate or flywheel has chipped teeth, the starter will just spin, because the starter drive has nothing to grab onto.
Isn't the bendix responsiabil to engage the starter?
Yes it is. As long as there are good teeth on the flywheel to grab on too. As Bill referenced. The bendix drive is also made to lock one direction but free wheel in the other. Like the pedal cranks on a 10 speed bicycle. If the bendix is a cheap aftermarket made in china piece. it may not be locking. This would also cause the starter to just spin.
First, I think the OP should make sure the installed starter is the correct one. Post your tranny and engine size. And the part number label on the box.