There can be numerous reasons for this. Start at the basics gas and fire (electric power). Trace these things to the problem.
no it wont just bolt on....
Probably a bad fuel pump, not uncommon.
97 Chevy Z71 truck will not shift into third gear.
the truck driver wont be there at the start but will be there later
Check the fuse
check the distributor
Auto or standard?
Who said it won't ? It will fit right in there with NO problems
do you have fire at the plug? if not the cap has coil in it and needs replaced
Dead battery. Recharge it and see if it will start. If not, remove the battery and go have it tested.
What type of truck is this?
check all wiring and connections for proper hookup. if no start still, reinstall old cap and rotor. If no start still, do diagnostic on electrical system.