what are the main things i should do to keep my engine in good shape besides regular oil changes? what are some realy good techniques for good eng maintainance? what you think?

Check plugs, wires, cap, rotor etc. For one thing, plugs are a good way to read engine performance and diagnose problems. But no matter what you do, putting your hands on it and get to know it is the best thing you can do.

Oh and don't forget the air filter, belts, hoses, good instruments, keeping the coolant in good shape, and checking idle vacuum periodically. To keep the car and the motor in tip-top shape, flush and fill the power steering fluid, brake fluid, change the differential fluid and tranny fluid at appropriate intervals. Frequently check coolant, engine oil, tranny oil, and differential fluid.