I'm working on a ford ranger 98 model with the four cylinder engine and two wheel drive. It set unused for about two years before he decided last week that he wanted it running again. At first when I turned the key all the interior lights died and the negative terminal arced. I replaced both the starter and the negative battery cable. Now when I turn the key I only get the click of the starter engaging. No cranking at all.

The owner seems to think the engine is locked and I'm starting to be inclined to agree with him.

How can I test for that and if it turns out to be the problem is there any easy fix.

Any help would be much appreciated.

Did you replace the battery?

To check the engine for being siezed you need to put a break over bar with a six point socket on the crankshaft pulley bolt. If it is siezed take the spark plugs out and squirt a generous amount of Marvel Mystery Oil in the cylinders and let it work for about 3 days. Marvel Mystery Oil will free it up if the cylinders aren't rusted up really bad. I've tried it and it did free up an engine that had been sitting for 5 years for me. Give it a try.