Speed up the process by eliminating doubt. Don't start out by thinking too deep. Start out by thinking it just needs some attention. From there discover what else needs attention. There will be plenty.
Start with a completely clean fuel supply. CAREFULLY take out the sending unit from the top of the fuel tank and look into the tank (hint:Don't use a lighter or match! Use a good Mag light or a flashlight that doesn't creat open sparks) to see if there is any corrosion in the bottom. If there is any, take the tank out the rest of the way and get it clean whatever means available whether you have to replace, profesionally clean or do it yourself. If you have to clean it try useing a pressure washer and then rinse it a few times with fresh gas.
Also replace any rubber fuel lines with new fuel lines (not just a rubber hose...Fuel line). Bad or brittle rubber lines can break up and end up in your fuel pump, fuel filter and/or carb. Any of this contamination can "take out" your fuel pump too.
Do a complete tuneup (plugs, points, filters, timing, etc.) before even messing with trying to start it.
Sometimes it just takes more work than you thought. That's just part of graduation from Stovebolt University.
