'97 Dakota fuel pump?

Not a hot rod but this site has been so great to me I know I will get a response.
My '97 V-6 Dakota will not start. Not even a fart. I know it is getting spark by shooting a little start fluid in the intake, then it will fire up untill the start fluid is gone. So I assume the sensors that tell the computer I want to start, and engine is cranking ,are working.
Therefor , a lack of fuel seems the culprit. Should I check to be sure the electric pump is getting a signal? Or should I just assume it is a failed pump?If so, can I install an inline pump as to replace my pump requires droping the tank.A challenging task considering the rusty components surrounding the plastic tank.
I have not opened the fuel line yet as it is pretty rusty on the outside(10yrs.of New England winters and seacoast living),however I may have to, to determine whether it may be clogged but I doubt that as I had no indication of slow fuel.
ANY input greatly appreciated .
P>S> I need to get this fixed so I can get back to work on my '31 chevy moto tranny install. :confused:

I f you disconnect the line ,you can turn the key on and determine if you are even getting fuel.May be a filter /fuse/clogged line,etc ,might even be a pinched line somewhere ?
Just start doing tests to see if each part of the fuel system is working to determine the problem........you should be able to narrow it down to the prob.
If you get stuck just ask away ,I am sure someone on this site can help you.