1989 Volvo 240 Volvo Cranks no start, fuel issues

A few weeks ago my volvo was experiencing long starting. The engine would crank but would take 5+secs to fire. I bought a fuel filter and installed it after I was left stranded. I installed the filter the next day and manged to place the wrong size washer on the filter causing fuel to spray out everywhere. So I know the external pump is getting fuel and doing its job.
After the filter was installed it started right up and works fine the entire day. The next day it left me stranded in a tumbleweed parking lot with my friends.
I assumed it could be a faulty fuel pump relay so I bought 2 at a junkyard. Both of those failed to fix the issue. The car just cranks and does not fire. Im going to test for a spark later tonight but I am not hearing the fuel pump relay activate when I try to crank the car.
Im a rookie at these sort of things but I figure this could simply be a wiring issue. I need to get my hands on a voltameter and make sure the relay is getting a current and im also go to check the wires on the external pump and make sure its activating. Any imput would be greatly appreciated.