Do basic maintenance before modifications. Change all fluids: engine oil, transmission fluid, differential oil, brake fluid, power steering fluid, coolant. Check brake pads/shoes, grease the caliper slide pins and the spring bits in the drums. Change sparkplugs and wires. Change serpentine belt and tensioner. Check for coolant leaking from the seams in the plastic sides of the radiator and the plastic thermostat housing, replace with aluminum parts if needed. If replacing the thermostat housing, also replace the timing chain tensioners after dropping the lower oil pan to check for shrapnel. Inspect all eight body mounts and see if you need new bushings. That should keep you busy for a while. There is more and others will undoubtedly chime in shortly.
Welcome!
