Rep Power: 0

I recently got a 1984 Dx Hatchback from my uncle who bought it with the intention of using it as a daily driver but never got around to working on it.
The battery has been replaced, oil changed, it's gassed up with all new gas but it still won't start. It cranks well enough and it started when we poured some gas in the carburetor, so we're thinking there's something wrong with the fuel pump. But I have very limited experiences with cars and don't know the ins and outs of the car.

 
Rep Power: 173

That sounds pretty plausible, but if it started up and ran just fine with the gas directly in there, then the pump might not be the issue. You've been hitting the gas as you start it (like with all carburated vehicles), right?

 
Rep Power: 0

have you tried smacking the gas tank with a rubber mallet. then trying to start it? if it starts after hitting it a few times that means a bad fuel pump. or when you get in the car start it put the key in tha auxilary position and listen for a whuuring noise from the tank.

 
Rep Power: 0

Take the fuel line off and see if fuel is coming up to the carb. if not possibly need new pump.