no display, hard drive and fan running

I have recently been given an old macbook, 2008, running a A1181 logic board. when powered on , white light lights up, but often goes out after 10 seconds, repower up and it stays on, no boot chime and just a faint flicker on the screen, then all black, shining light from front or rear does not bring up display. i have checked all board connections, and SEEM ok, usb ports are working {at least to charge phone}, optical disc drive will not accept cd/dvd, discs just hang out about 1/4”, {i don,t think there is a disc in there already}, I intend to get a mini dvi to dvi adapter later today and try an external display. I would appreciate any, and all advice anyone may have, thank you.

Any other advice available?