Chrysler Repair: General Maintenance, financial setbacks, engine coolant

Question
I've got a general question about preventative maintenance. I own a 1993 2 wheel drive Ford Ranger with 67,000 miles on it.  My wife uses it for work (4 mi. one way) and shopping. Due to financial setbacks, she is going to have to drive it indefinitely. What can I do without going ($$$nutso) to half way assure it'll keep going for her.(I'am hoping for 20,000 miles more )  I'am planning on getting the engine  coolant replaced,new plugs, belts checked, along with oil change and fuel,air and oil filters. Any thoughts about the transmission or rear end?  They've not been any problem so far.
Thank you.
Sincerely,
Tom B.  Wisconsin

Answer
I would recomend doing all the maintenance you have suggested and also the differential and transmission services.  The transmission is one of those things where if you let it go too long (100K) or more without servicing then DON'T service it ever.  Sometimes the new fluid can make the transmission fail quicker.  Now is the time to service it and do so every 60K or so to ensure a longer life span.

On the plugs, only put in the motorcraft plugs it calls for.  Don't buy the latest and greatest platinum double-coated in chocolate plugs out there.  Many times you will create a mis-fire condition buy running those oh-so-great plugs.  Cheaper sometimes really is better.  BUT don't down-grade either.  Wires most of the time don't give as much problem.  Just make sure they are close to the same lengths as the ones coming off.  Belts, you almost can't go wrong with a Gatorback, Gates, or OEM belts.

It sounds like you've already got in your mind what you want to do in order to keep this thing on the road and I suggest you follow through with it.
Doug