I recently obtained a 1990 Ford Ranger XLT long bed with a 4.0 liter V6 with a four speed auto. It runs perfectly fine. I am planning on getting brand new spark plugs, oil filter, air filter, oil, and some other basics. Any suggestions on brands that are far better than others? I am also planning on putting about $400-$500 into it for better performance. What would be the cheapest way to go to get the most. I did a little research at truckperformance.com and found that the following upgrades are possibilities and their supposed stats increase:

GIBSON Swept Side 2 1/2inch Aluminized Steel Side Exit Cat-Back Exhaust System $267.75 +10-15HP +26 Torque
CARSOUND Universal, High-Flow Catalytic Converter (Rear only) $75.14 +8-10HP +12 Torque
PACESETTER Black Painted 1½ Inch Mild Steel Header $220.97 +7-9HP +8 Torque
BBK Single 66mm High-Flow Replacement Throttle Body (No SOHC) $202.48 + 15-20HP +20 Torque
AEP-JBA Blue 9mm Custom Fit Power Cables $55.30 +5HP +5 Torque
BELLTECH Front 1-1/4 inch Diameter Sway Bar $134.23 - -
Magnaflow Performance Muffler $100.95 + 11HP +15 Torque

How do these upgrades look to you guys? Any other suggestions or comments?

 

Any header, high flow cat and muff, combo will help, but with install might go over $500.

 

To get the most out of any modification you do you need to reprogram the computer for everything you installed including tire size change. Check out http://www.jetchip.com/