Couple of question (ignition/engine)

In my 86 Cutlass, I've noticed the ignition won't turn. It does, after a minute of trying, but it's still very stiff. Also, the engine (Olds 307) in it died last September. I've let it sit since. I decide that I'm going to take it apart until I find the problem area, and attempt to fix it. Is this possible? I've heard many thing as to why it died, everything from pushrods getting caught, to a bearing coming loose. Me and a friend have already removed the valve covers and started to look at the pushrods, with only a few remaining. Any help at all on this would be great.