1987 ford 7.5L 464 won't start.. symptoms prior?

well, obviously a fuel delivery issue. Fuel filter would be an easy one to eleminate. I believe that has a mechanical pump mounted on the side of the engine, you could pull the outlet line (at the pump or at the carb inlet) and see if it's pushing fuel while the engine is being cranked. Troubleshoot why your not getting fuel and go from there.