how much gas is really needed to start a engine?

[Antizerg]

I am trying to run my 1988 kawasaki JS440 for the first time and I put half a gallon 50:1 in the tank, which barely puts a dent into the tank...i am debating wether its the carb or not just enough gas...When I put starting fluid into the flame arrestor the engine tries to fire up but doesnt stay on.

 

[badboyr6]

do not use starting fluid, it has no lubrication. get a spray bottle and spray some 50:1 into the carbs directly. keep spraying it to keep it running for 15 secs or so.

 

[Tyler Zane]

just make sure the fuel tube thingys are under gas in the tank.