No, the Bendix would still be counter clockwise.
Sketch it on paper and flip it around and you will see.

If you get any rotation to the belt; Look at the pony flywheel. There's an arrow cast in telling you the correct direction it should spin.
I still think you need to fool with how the starter is in the casting. You may need to move it in and out slightly so Bendix fully engages with enough tooth clearance with the idler gear diving the belt. Example; Ever had the starter not shimmed properly on a small block Chevy?
I have one on a D2 that is VERY finicky. When I engage it, it kicks back out immediately after one turn or so on the pony flywheel. Definitely not enough turns to start. Mine is probably worn out or weak spring but when it works and starts the pony, who cares, The diesel starts and I go to work.