see if the near inside edge of the ring gear is > .86 and far edge is >= 1.33 deep off the trans/engine mounting plane, then pry out the pinion gear of your old suspect starter and see if the tip of the gear projects out to > 1.33. If it does, your pinion is 'getting out' there. The "button" is a non issue as it doesnt contact the ring gear nor the end of the pinion housing. Its limited by something internal, not the button. Just food for thought if anyone ever gets in there again.
