Important without records or previous knowledge. You are mechanically inclined so the condition of the timing chain for stretch. Especially the chain guides for excessive wear as a chain guide coming apart can take the chain and do a real number on the engine. At the same time make sure your pump timing and cam timing are right.
You want all the cold start ability, good running characteristics and best fuel milage possible. The checks also are basically free to do yourself as well. Instructions are well done in the archives if there is any confusion just ask for clarification. Since the valve pan is off then check the valve clearances at the same time. A lot of these cars mechanicals have been ignored by a lot of previous owners as long as they ran they were ignored.
Since you only have dash gauges and no idiot light or warning system check belts, coolant hoses,oil cooler rubber lines . You want nothing failing as car is underway. Also a brake fluid flush and coolant change to the recommended type is good as well.
Possibly if the car has the green antifreeze and it is already acidic with age. You do not have an aluminium head so it is not as critical. Since it is thought the green anti freeze attacks the german plastic necks on the radiator. I really do not know if that is conclusivley proven though.
It is still a good ideal in my mind. Flush and clean out the block and radiator as well of course in the coolant change. The block has a plug.
At least check the differential level and check condition of cv boots for cracking or leakage. A good total checkover makes good common sense to me. Really is cost efficient anyways.
Your steering box will probably allow some adjustment as mentioned in the archives again. Also check all your front end components for any unusual play as well first. Nobody likes a sloppy steering system although this car may never be as tight as a steering rack example. Others may disagree.
Always good ideal to see new people join the site. The site makes ownership of these cars easy in comparison to it not existing. Welcome to the site and looking forward to your thoughts.
I just hope you are not one of these guys that never changes his oil. I was going to say gets his oil changed regularily but thought better. We do not need a new convulted oil thread either. Find one in the archives for your own entertainment when you have a little time. They tend to be more polarized than a battery. . The above things I mention can keep you going for a little while.