1994 Sentra XE - been sitting for 5 years

[sqzdog]

My neighbor just gave me this car. It has been sitting on a paved surface for 5 years. It has the 1.6L engine with 137k miles. I checked all fluids, put a new battery in but it wouldn't start. I shot some starting fluid into the intake and it fired right up and ran for less than 5 seconds. The fuel tank is about 1/2 full.

What types of things should I be doing to get this thing up and running. I know I need to check the brakes, replace the tires and those kinds of things. I just want to get it running so I can evaluate it. I was thinking it would be a good starter car for my son. Thanks in advance for any advice.

[jamesmetairie]

if the gasoline has been in it for a few years it is stale.
it may gummy up the the fuel lines and injectors.
the tank itself could have rust build up in it.

but they are good little cars.

good luck.