Classic/Antique Car Repair: thing no go, high pitch, vw thing

Question
Hi Rick, I talked to you a couple of months ago trying to start my vw thing after it had been sitting for a year (or 2). I took the carb off and cleaned it, rebuilt it, and put it back on.  I also gave it an oil change and charged battery back up.  I tried to start today, and it turns over and over and over, but does not want to start.  I laid on the gas pedal and it started??? maybe, but made a high pitch almost speeding lawn mower sound (probably, because all gas??)Got scared turned off ignition. Saw some white smoke when went to back of car.  Tried again after waiting few minutes and again only turned over and no start.  You think it is timing or spark ??? Don't know too much about vw, my first one..time to go to mechanic or something more I can do myself.  Thanks for any info. Wayne

Answer
Hi Wayne,
 I would not assume anything.  I think you should do a general tune-up, top to bottom.  See here: www.vw-resource.com/tune-up.html
Set the timing by dwell angle, not crank degrees, it should be 44-50.  

Also,
- Old gas is BAD gas.  Dump all the old gas out of the tank, flush it, blow out the gas lines and replace the filter.   

- Adjust the valves, engine stone cold.  See here: www.vw-resource.com/valveadj.html

Good luck, let me know if you need anything more specific.

-Rick