best way...
 

what the best most lucrative way to make it so the engine will crank but not start?

I'm sure I don't want to know why you need this info but to me it would be to pull the fuse for the fuel pump, start it let it run till it dies and the start it 2 or 3 more times so all the fuel pressure is gone. After that it won't run anymore but you will still get it to crank.

Yeppers, and your safest method is to disconnect the fuel line (located in the center of your rear cargo area - just lift the carpet and you'll see it).

that or disconnect the coil to distributor wire.

i like that idea better, because a dumba$$ mechanic would overlook it..