Car is 14 years old (I've had it 3.5), but I've sunk so much into keeping this 5-speed 35+ mpg friend going, I decided to recondition the engine and keep it another few years.
What procedures/cautions should I observe, so as to maximize my investment? For how long? Getting the car back next Monday or Tuesday.

 

Do you plan to do the work yourself? You are not specific about that.

1) Lots of good quality pre lube on everything, especially any new parts installed.
2) Use a good quality start up oil and filter, then change them both after 1000 miles.
3) If replacing the cam and/or lifters, be sure to break them in immediately upon start up. Bring the engine RPM's to between 2000 & 2500 rpm and hold them there for +/-20 mins. This step is often forgotten about and can lead to premature failure of valve train parts.
3) I love full synthetic oils, and perhaps this is old-school thinking, I'm not sure, but to make sure the new piston rings seat/wear in properly I would use regular "dino" oil for the first +/-10k miles then convert to a quality full synth.
4) Of course there is all the usual stuff, like making sure the head and deck are trued. Making sure the crank is balanced, polished and capable of sustaining new bearings.
5) Replace the rods or at least the rod bolts w/new.
6) Head bolts/studs/nuts are another thing that are not wise to reuse.

I think that should cover most of it.

 

Thanks! A local shop is doing the work. Engine is back from machine shop; my shop is waiting for an oil pump and some gaskets before reassembling. I'll pass along your thoughts. Shop manager suggests speed under 60 mph and 1st oil change at 500 miles.