1988 mk2 8v wont start (could it be the fuel pump)?

[fazer_rob]

Bought the car 3dr Shwartz (think thats the name) black grey metalic Campaign model. Decided to put her in storage in 2001 at 120000mls. Great condition and now 23 years old. Had half a tank of fuel when taken off road in 2001. Started every 6 months or so over the years with jump leads and always started first kick.
I'll get to the point....I tried to start her on Saturday ...but no joy.
Noticed that the normal hum from the fuel pump when ignition is turned on was'nt there. I think the fuel may have dried up after 10 years and perhaps the pump has become siezed.
Put 5ltrs of petrol in but she wont start.....gutted

Could it be something obvious??
Any advice appreciated.

Rob

[Seanl]

Yeah your probably right. 10 year old fuel won't help, as the pump seals will have become sticky and brittle by now anyway.

[mad4vws]

if the pump isn't making the noise then yes the pump could be duff , I've had mine parked for 4 years now but it still starts first turn of the key . 

[rob.043]

is it a digifant engine or K jet engine?

Have a search in the mk2 section, there will be more info there.

There is a relay, fuse and possibly two pumps to check through for the fault. the in tank pump commonly goes first, and is the cheaper to replace. Can you smell fuel in the exhaust when you try to start it?

[javalin]

check/replace the fuel filter and pipes etc first.  More likely the filter IMHO