Hi,
No problem whatsoever. Here is how the starter works. There is constant 12v power straight from the battery to the starter (larger wire). There is a smaller wire on the starter referred to as the S terminal. The S terminal wire only gets 12v when the key is in the start position.
When the S terminal gets power, it actuated both the starter motor (powered via the larger wire) and the solenoid Bendix (the portion of the assembly that has the gear that kicks out, spins, and makes contact with the flywheel to spin the engine).
Since you said it would continue spinning but retract and just freely spin, that is what seems to be the problem (the solenoid/Bendix is bad).
If that is happening, then it's likely the starter itself. If you turn the key and nothing happens, you need to check power at the S terminal when the key is in the start position. If there is power, the starter is bad. If there isn't power, then we need to work backwards to see where it's lost. However, the free spinning indicates the S terminal is getting power.
If it doesn't respond at all, check the S terminal for power with the key in the start position. Here is a link that you may find helpful.
https://www.2carpros.com/articles/starter-not-working-repair
I hope that makes sense. LOL Sometimes I write things and then question if it's understandable.
Let me know if that helps or if I can help in any way. If possible, let me know the outcome.
Take care,
Joe
Friday, December 3rd, 2021 AT 6:07 PM