+1 on spark plugs, distributor cap, rotor and points. To start, I agree just clean as many ports and everything you can on the carb with carb cleaner.
Address the coolant. Drain and refill with water and radiator flush (I like Blue Devil). Follow instructions which basically run it for a while with the flush/water and then drain and refill with fresh 50/50 coolant water. You will be amazed at how much junk will come out with the flush. This also keeps your temperatures where they should be. It would be a convenient time to change the thermostat while you have the coolant drain. Easy and cheap.
New fuel filter. I'd buy two. Put a new one on and run half tank of good gas with full bottle of fuel/carb cleaner then replace fuel filter again and refill the tank. Again, cheap and easy insurance for not getting stranded.
Flush brake fluid. With help, not a bad job at all. Note that if you are new to this, when opening brake lines and fittings you want to use a crescent flare wrench, not a normal open end wrench. Trust me, the first time you round off a brake fitting with a regular wrench, you will wish you had done it right.
https://www.homedepot.com/p/Crescen...eLCyuf2I4jSD6LNwd8tCLnDfIi0d3C3gaAswEEALw_wcB
New battery cables are a good investment. Good current flow and good ground will help with lots of issues.
Take a look at hoses and belts. Cracks or fraying = time for replacement so you don't get stranded when they go.
If the engine area is dirty, grab a can of Gunk Engine Degreaser and a hose. Not only does having it somewhat clean make it less of a dirty chore to work on it, but being clean helps you actually to be able to fix problems: you are able to see the source of any leaks, the color of the wires, lost tools left behind by the previous owner, etc. and it may help your engine run cooler. Worth $4.
Finally, keep track of the dates, mileage and part # on all the work you do, no matter how small. Having that record is good for both you and any owner down the road.
