The starter will not kick in so when I try to start it it just whirl.

I would guess (without further info from you) that the solenoid on the starter OR the starter itself require R&R. (presuming that you battery is fully charged)

When you say starter kicks out, does that mean that it will not even turn over anymore than once? Have you tried spraying quick start at all?

You're right. the starter should be mounted somewhere along where the engine is attached to the transmission.

Bad Starter

Solenoid -questionable
Bendix-questionable
Worn Armature-your correct

Yes. Most starters come with shims. More than likely that is exactly what you need to do is to shim the starter. More than likely the bendix is hitting the flywheel. Just as you said.

the whirling sound is the starter drive, it has a one-way clutch built into it and it is going out it is possible to replace the starter drive but in most cases it is more cost effective to replace the starter....GOOD LUCK

If the noise is just a spinning sound and not a grinding, than you're starter solinoid is probably bad.
You're best bet is to replace the starter. Hope this helps.

I would imagine the starter is going bad. My corsica does that when its really cold. I would have the starter tested. And check your wire connections for corosion.

The solinoid switch on yor starter is not engaging the engine flexplate; charge your battery then try again if the engine starts replace the battery if the car does not replace the starter.
the solinoid gets weak and needs more power to push into the flexplate and, the switch contacts in the starter can also get burned increasing the need for more power to work properly also check the battery cables they must be clean and, tight

fuel pump
fuel filter could be cloged
they are cheap turn your car on and try to listen to your fuel pump if you cant hear in should only come on about 2 secs per every time you turn your key to the on position then thats the problem sounds like it tho