[Jfrahm]

> in a no start situation. I know we can all check spark with a spark plug too.

You can check for a spark with a spark plug, but cannot tell if it's strong enough... maybe if it's dark enough and the spark looks a bit too orange you can suspect it's weak.

Far better to have a spark checker that can force a good long arc to see if the spark is strong enough. I am thinking couple of spare spark plug wires and a plug with the ground electrode removed, and some stovepipe wire might be handy to set up a gap somewhere where it can be seen when cranking and in enough shade to observe the spark.

On an early car that might be easier to rig than a DME relay jumper.

If you break down the biggest concern is safely getting out of the traffic flow and maybe then to a place where you can try a DME relay jumper or other fixes or diagnostics. Getting hit on the side of the road is too common.

-Joel