car will crank but won't fire?

Are you talking about the ignition module? How long since a tune-up? With extended crank, have helper crank it, while you visually check for spark at the plugs. If you have spark everywhere, use a gage and check fuel pressure. If your fully obd1 compliant, you can check troubles, yourself, see if a code might point us in the right direction.

To check for spark at the plugs, take a plug wire loose, stick a known good plug or spark tester in the boot. Ground metal part of plug/tester to metal part of engine, have helper crank, while you watch for spark. Also, some of the national brand autostores used to loan out a fuel pressure gage, if you don't have one.