Starter Woes

[nateynormal]

Huge thanks to all of you on this forum I reference it all the time for diys and useful info. Hoping I can get some more feedback as I have searched around a bit and not found my answer yet.
I recently replaced the oil pan on my car 87 325 w/ m50 swap. It took lots of work to get the pan replaced and back in. Now everything is back together and the starter will NOT turn the flywheel. I have tested the starter and the solenoid is working. The starter is spinning but not hitting the flywheel.
I even purchased a new (eBay) starter just to be sure but this hasn't helped.
My question for the experts is this. Is there a possibility the the starter is not in the right position meaning is it possible that the transmission is somehow not aligned properly with the block even though all the bolts are in?
Any feedback is helpful. Thanks again.

[36brua]

If you 'bench' tested the starter before install and the solenoid/pinion gear is working and starter makes noise when you turn the ignition on your starter may need alignment. There is enough clearance in the bolt holes that will allow it to drop down and the nose of the pinion will bang into the side of the ring gear. loosen starter hold up then tighten bolts.
If you are not using the sheet metal plate between the eng /trans you can get out of whack. the tin is located by the eng dowels and hole for the starter is pretty tight and helps starter alignment.
So mess with starter make sure it works then install intake manifold etc.
or ask me how I know