Doing tune ups oil changes etc....

So I need to get basic tools to do some mechanics for the explorer...and suggestions on required tools? I think I need something to accurately elevate the car. What are those little ramps called? I see creepers for sale...need one of those and maybe a special socket for pulling spark plugs. I think I have to go underneath the car to remove the plugs.
I have a CD scoped out that is supposedly the service repair manual completely printable for about 25 bucks.
Man, I remember working on my Datsun truck with no problems at all...of course that was the early eighties. I could take that vehicle apart with a socket wrench and a screwdriver. No way I can do that with the explorer.

Well any tips or heads up would be appreciated. I think I can pick up those ramp things at K-Mart...

Boy I'm not looking forward to this...I just finished getting my butt kicked by the new sewing machine I baught. Altho I am proud to say I have hemmed and repaired a whole bunch of my kids school clothes. but it took awhile for me to figure out (hours and hours)...

What do I do with the used oil?

And what the heck is a PCV valve?

will take it off your hands.

In the old days, the PCV valve was plugged into the valve cover at the top of the engine. Might still be, depending on the age of your Explorer. It's short for positive crankcase ventilation valve.

I don't use ramps, I use hydraulic jacks and jack stands. But an Explorer is kind of high so a 12" jack isn't going to work. Maybe for basic service the ramps are enough, just don't drive off the edge.

Creepers are a goddamn pain in the ass. I have owned several, they never roll well. Just save your money and get some large cardboard boxes. Open them, lay them flat, crawl around on them. Flop on yer back, grad the frame above yer head and slide on under. They also keep the driveway clean.

Get some basic tools from Sears. You can afford them because you won't be buying a creeper and big boxes are free from the appliance stores. Explorer plugs would require a 5/8" spark plug socket. Get a plug gapper tool. get a damn good oil filter tool. You want the filter to come off. It sucks when the tool won't work and you have to drive a screwdriver throught it.

Get a good drain pan. A large one. Stuff does not always drain straight down, especially when the wind blows.

Search online for a scanned manual. I have downloaded manuals for my Midget, my Kawi KZ400, my Volkswagen diesels and others. Just keep searching for Explorer Ford manual download and see what you can find. Also, check Ebay. I get manuals there too.

Check out the message forums. http://www.ford-trucks.com is a good one. By reading the posts and searching you will find hints and tips about things like changing the plugs and stuff. Plugs, distributor cap and rotor, plug wires, oil & filter. Done. Air filter-- is it old? PCV valve will last a long time.

How many miles?

As stated, auto parts stores will accept your old oil. Save some milk containers to put the old stuff in.