Starter not meshing with 130 tooth flywheel

[Max G]

Ok, so ive done the searches on the forum and can't work this issue out.
I'm building a buggy, new/old engine on original tranny.
I hear nasty grinding when I crank the starter
Flywheel has 130 teeth and the starter has 12v stamped on it.
I removed starter and powered it up out of the bellhousing, the starter gear throws out fine.
Put it back in added separate ground strap to starter, same thing still happening.
The pin at the end of the starter is the same size as the hole in the bellhousing, BUT I dont think I can hear it properly "throwing out" and meshing with the flywheel.
Any ideas??
There was a rotary engine bolted to this tranny previously so is it possible that someone changed the gear on the starter?
Maybe I should just got out and buy a new 12v starter motor?
Is there anyone local to maple ridge that can cone check it out?
Thanks in advance.
Here are some pics of the starter for reference

[Max G]

FYI, I went to AVR parts today and they were super helpful in my search for clarification.
I compared my starter to a brand new 12v starter.
Looks like someone put a 12v solenoid on a 6v starter and that's what i have, as the gears were a slightly different size.

[silas]

FYI, I went to AVR parts today and they were super helpful in my search for clarification.
I compared my starter to a brand new 12v starter.

i meant to reply to this awhile ago...but just wanted to say, in this day & age its nice to still have a local bricks & mortar vw parts shop where you can go and get this kind of help!!

way to go avr!!