[GTTinkerer]

Remove the small cover over the top end of the starter to check the position of the starter drive gear. Many times it will be up and engaging the flywheel. If this is the case the starter will not be able to generate enough torque to turn the engine over. Normally if you turn the engine over backwards by hand the drive gear will slide down to where it should be. If not lightly tap it with a screwdriver or punch.

As Joe said the bendix can be replaced fairly cheaply ad easily. B&S used a couple of different bendix styles so you may need to take the starter to the parts store with you.