I always like to start with cheap and easy first. From your description, it sounds like an ignition timing thing to me. If it were me, I'd go in this order:
*pull dizzy and check for wear, if bad, replace distributor, drop pan to remove shavings, change oil and filter and check timing, if that doesn't fix it... (not easy if you have to pull the pan, but at least then you know you've found something).
*pull timing cover and check cam and other timing marks, if aligned...
*check fuel pressure at the rail, if not 40, replace pump, if 40...
*replace TFI and attempt to start, if no...
*have it towed to the shop and let them deal with it
I'm going through a dizzy gear issue on my '84 now. sigh. Reluctant to start it as I remember the rash of broken dizzy gears about 4 or 5 years ago. I'm measuring everything and checking to make sure it is within specs. We'll see how it goes.
So far, I'm pleased with my rebuilder; pricer than Cardone, but I believe better quality and much better customer service. I've spoke with him on the phone several times.
Dave