Volkswagen Repair: 1974 Volks Beetle Wont Start, gasonline, motor manuals

Question
We have a '74 Beetle that has been parked for several months.  It ran fine up until that time.  We went to start it today, and though we put a brand new battery in it and it turned over fine, we are getting no firing.  We put about 4 gallons of gas in the tank, and got it to start for a few seconds each time by using starting ether or gasonline in the carb.  It would only run until that fuel was used up though.  We were wondering if the engine is getting fuel, but aren't sure about the location of the fuel filter or the fuel pump.  What's our next step?  Thanks for your help!
Tyler

Answer
Tyler,
 My area of expertise does not extend to gas engines.  However, you mentioned that the vehicle has been parked for several months (how many?).  The gasoline sold in the U.S., both formulated and otherwise, has a relatively short lifespan.  If the fuel in the tank and fuel system has degraded (as little as 6 months), you may need to drain the system and clean the carb.  There are tests you can conduct regarding the fuel system functioning...they will be found in Motor manuals that can be found in your local library.  Follow the directions.  Hope this helps.  Jerry