1988 Jeep Cherokee wont start

vehicle has not run in 3-4 years as steering column destroyed by attempted theft. checked starter; appears good. added 5 gallons of "new"gas but no gas additive. hot wired from battery to starter selenoid, applied both starting fluid and carburetor cleaner(both spray can). noticed dark wet substance on concrete from tailpipe.

vehicle turned over an average of 5 seconds per try but wouldnt "start".ideas: check gas line to carburetor to see if fuel pump is working; change fuel filter;add gas additive to tank .

any other ideas much appreciated.
Rcangler3

updated 2/6/10
thank you for your reply. the engine appears to have a spark yes. removed fuel filter to clean . again applied starter fluid to carburetor and attempted "hot wire"start.carburetor doesnt seem to get any gas. no gas leaking out of gas line minus the filter.could this be a faulty fuel filter perhaps?

questions: is their an electrical fuse for fuel filter to replace (lower cost vs fuel filter)?
any other idea on why no start?

thanks for any info.
bob