Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): John deere 265 backfiring and wont start, john deere 265, shutoff valve

Question
I have a john Deere 265 and it will not start. I think that there are two problems.

1st

There is no fuel getting to the carb. there is vacuum from the engine but it seams very weak. all the fuel lines are free from obstructions. the fuel filter is new and the carb. has just been cleaned before storing for the winter. I think that the fuel pump may be bad. Is there anyway to test this before replacing the fuel pump.

2nd

I have tried to bypass the fuel problem by pouring a small amount of gas down the carb. all that happens is a very loud backfire. I have checked the key and cleaned the flywheel and coil, replaced the spark plug and there is good spark. checked the valves and they are opening and closing like they should and there is good compression. Today I was able to get the engine to run for about 2 to 3 secs by pouring the fuel down the carb. again but that was about it. The engine is a fc540v Kawasaki

What else should i check

Answer
Do you have fuel in the gas tank?

How fresh is your fuel?  Make sure you have FRESH fuel in the tank..

Is the shutoff valve turned in the open position?

To test the fuel pump, simply unhook the line that goes to the carb and crank the engine over.  You should see fuel pump through the line.

You have a fuel related issue as you indicate because when u pour gas in the carb it will run for a rew secs then quit.

Your on the right track.