Why is my starter doing this?
 

My SLTX 1050 stopped starting consistently. Turn the key, I hear the starter spinning, but the pinion gear wont go up the shaft to the fly wheel.

I attached a short video:

https://imgur.com/l4Zcn4u

Does this mean I need a new starter? Could the shaft be stripped so that the pinion gear isn't grabbing it enough to go high enough to reach the flywheel?

Is the pinion gear supposed to wiggle on the shaft? I can wiggle it a lot.

Im reading a lot about people having to apply lube on a starter that is stuck, but mine seems to be too loose (?)

Thank you.

Sounds like new starter time, based on your description.

Common problem. Try lubing it with some graphite spray before replacing it. I use Lock-Ese. I’ve done a few John Deeres.