Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Murray Lawn Mower wont crank, murray riding lawn mower, riding lawn mower

Question
Micheal,
Thank you for the reply.  The engine would not turn over with the spark plug removed and I wasn't able to budge it by hand.  Is there any way to unseize it?
Thanks,
Craig
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Followup To
Question -
Michael,
My mom's Murray riding lawn mower won't start.  When I turn the key, I get 1 click from the starter.  It trys to spin the wheel but it only turns it a 1/4 of an inch and stops so the engine isn't cranking.  I know the battery is good.  When I started looking at it, it had very little oil in it.  Is it possible it seized up?  If it is siezed, is there anything I can do or should I trash it?
Thanks,
Craig
Answer -
Hi Craig,

Remove the spark plug/s to allow the engine to turn over without compression.  If it turns over with the starter, then there is a problem with the starting system.  If it still won't turn over at all, try to turn it over by hand to see if the engine is seized.

Let me know what you find.
Michael

Answer
Hi Craig,

Sorry for my delay.  The holiday was busy here.

If it has slight damage internally, you could soak the cylinders with penetrating oil, and force the engine to turn with a wrench on the flywheel or by tapping on the cylinders with a wood block and a hammer.  At that point the engine may loose compression and smoke.  If the damage is severe, the engine will need rebuilding or replacement.

Good Luck,
Michael

I am swamped with questions and won't be able to take follow up questions until next week.  Sorry.