Registration and insurance do not affect a vehicle's safety and reliability, so they are not a factor. Please keep this in perspective, relative to the original post.

And, welcome to the Wire!

The info posted has been vey informative and thaks to this point! A few questions. Where can i get the compression checked and how much does it run. Also (from another post) how much goes into replaging all teh bushings? I think i need to definately look into that but think i might jus have to bite the bullet and take it to a shop w the bushing already purchased and write the check as i hit myself for spending that much!(that seems like a labor intensive process..$$$)

Any shop can check compression. You can use it as an excuse to buy the tool (that will cost you less). Unless the truck is acting up, you'll probably see near stock numbers, slightly down due to age.

Don't go off buying bushings unless you actually need them. Very rarely will you actually need them. Especially all of them.

So should I even worry about checking the compression? Also i think that my control arm bushings, like tie rod ends might need bushings just because of age and abuse of rollin on bigger tires.

As mentioned, you can do the compression test yourself; here's a little read for you. Main thing is to either disconnect your coil wire or coil packs, so you don't actually turn 'er over. Would be a bad day for ya.

Case in point with the Corolla, the numbers are low, but still in spec; she's not burning oil or coolant, but we know it'll be time to either rebuild the ol gal or replace her. Been a good little steed that still gets 39 mpg. The main thing is that we know how the mill is holding up, and have some wiggle room to plan ahead. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/kewl.gif" alt="" />

how to do a compression test His compression kit is a bit fancy, but you'll get the idea.

To repeat what Erik mentioned, inspect the front end to make sure you're sound, OR need to replace parts. A shop that specializes in front end work would be worth looking for.

My plugged nickels.

Generally speaking, I wouldn't do a compression check unless you have a reason to. Sure, if you're truck is smoking, or running poorly, do some diagnostic work. Otherwise, drive, maintain and enjoy.

Similar the suspension bushings. If things are working poorly or wrong, inspect and repair as necessary. Otherwise, drive, maintain and enjoy.