Maybe this is dumb question, I'm pretty beginner when it comes to cars. Picked up a nonrunning 95 sidekick, and I can't hear my fuel pump prime when I turn the key. Is it audible, or because of location is it something I wouldn't be able to hear? It seems inconveniently placed sso I don't really wanna dig in there unless I know I need to replace something.

Let's do this scientifically - connect a fuel pressure gauge and see what the pressure looks like.  Realistically, is hearing the pump run going to tell you why it's not starting?  You may be able to borrow/rent a gauge from your local auto parts store.

Want some troubleshooting ideas - get a can of starter fluid and spray it into the intake whilst someone else cranks the engine - if it runs on the starter fluid you have a fuel system issue, if it doesn't check for  spark - remove a spark plug, reconnect the cable and hold the plug against the cylinder head whilst someone else cranks the engine - see if it sparks at the firing end.   

Yeah that's where i'm at. shooting starter fluid into the intake does produce a running engine. i've never had to diagnose fuel issues before though. i'll look into fuel pressure guage though, thanks for the tip!

So you have a fuel delivery problem ...

Could be an empty tank, a defective pump, no power to the pump, a clogged filter, or injection issues - the reason I'm suggesting a pressure test is you could have a pump that's running but does not deliver the pressure required to inject.

Is this an 8 or 16v engine - throttle body or multi-point injection?  If it's throttle body do NOT wire the injector directly to +12V or ground.