Hello! I have recently started working on a 1994 Ford Ranger. Was told it had been sitting, but have no idea for how long, just trying to get it started. 

It has the 4.0 v6, automatic transmission, and just about 230k miles. I have done all the recommended services for sitting cars, as well as replacing parts I proved to be faulty:

- changed the oil and coolant (oil looked fine, just dirty. no sparkles or milkshake) 

- new oil, air, and fuel filter(s)

- new battery

- spark plugs (even tested to make sure they were all sparking, and yep they were) 

- ignition coil

- fuel pump 

- starter

fuel pressure is fine - checked with a gauge kit

The truck cranks but won't fire up, not even with starting fluid. It is acting like it wants to start, but then sputters and dies out. 

Another weird issue is with the fuel gauge itself. The needle gets stuck right in the middle. I found something about an anti-slosh module(?) in the dashboard, discovered a way to bypass it, now the needle moves between showing half a tank and empty. I find this to be weird considering I just replaced the fuel pump, and unless the dash gauge itself is bad, I don't know what that problem is either. Have never seen anything like it. 

I have done countless hours of research and watching videos on what the issues could be. Really just looking for a direction to go from here, any help would be appreciated!! Please help me start this truck!!