I am only gueesing here but you might have a partially clogged fuel filter. If you can hear the gas pump (humming) that means that it is working.
Changing out the fuel filter takes some doing so, if your not inclined, you might check around at your local repair shop to have it changed out. The fuel filter is in the gas tank itself and needs to be dropped out to replace it.
Using starter fluid is not the best recommendation, but if it works.
Starter fluid is a higher octane fluid with a lower ignition point.