Check the pump connector for burned, corroded or damaged terminals, I've also seen them damaged from test probes being inserted.

Bad parts (out of the box) are not very common but it happens from time to time, especially if the part is a cheap after-market unit.

 

Is there a way to test the pump by hooking it up a 12 volt charger??? the part is a chevy dealership bought pump... I hate to have to tow it to the shop...but the nice thing the bed is removed so they won't charge me labor for removing the tank....Anyways thanks for all the help

 

I have a diesel and it has to be primed if you run it out of fuel. Since your problem started when you ran it out of fuel, could there be air in the line which is causing your 0 fuel pressure? It seems coincidential that all your problems started when it ran out of fuel.

 

I have a 2000 5.3L Z71 and I am having the EXACT same problem. Did you ever get yours fixed??? If so, what was the problem?