my 94' 4.3 vortec turns over fine, but when it comes to firing up, no go. would this be because of a "dead" fuel pump, or for some reason an electrical problem/ no sparks from plugs?

 

Well, you really need to test the fuel pressure to point at a fuel delivery problem...

 

I just had this problem with my 95 vortech, mine ended up being my fuel pump. check your pressure either at the fuel line right before the filter it should be located on the frame on the driver side, or at the schrader valve which is at the back of the intake on the driver side. you should have at least 50 psi. if you have pressure then check for spark.