N/A tune up tips needed

[IndySVODave]

My "new" vert has a rough idle when first started, and if I don't hold the gas down for 30 secs. or so, it'll die. Once it's going though, it runs smooth as silk. It also runs down the highway at 75mph just fine. I plan on doing a tune-up on it. It's a 89 2.3 AOD.
I checked base timing, and it's right at -10btdc. I tried to pull codes, but it would never send anything to my scanner.
I gave up on trying to get codes, and pulled the plugs. one of the cheap plug wires came apart from the boot, but the plugs looked pretty good.
The simple question is "Are n/a 2.3 as sensitive to cheaper plugs, wires, etc as turbo motors? Should I buy motorcraft parts for it?
The more difficult question is "Why couldn't I pull codes? I know how to use my scanner. I've used it on my SVO and my Bronco numerous times.
The previous owner said he replaced the computer in the car, and numerous sensors trying to fix this problem. he said it is a computer with the same codes on the side of it. I figured with all my knowledge, I'd be able to get this thing running tip-top.
This is just a temporary "beater" until we either move closer to my work, or gas prices come back down, so I'd rather use less expensive parts if possible.
Any ideas?
Thanks

 

[Paul C.]

I used the Advance Auto Lifetime Warranty wires($20) and Ford cap and rotor;Autolite copper plugs (go ahead and change 'em). Clean out the IAC and replace the vac lines. Most folks use the Motorsport wires but if I mess one up I take the whole set back and get a new one.

Speed Density comp won't throw codes unless something is really screwed up. Never seen a code on mine.

It just wants a good tune !

 

[JamesBaumann]

Motorcraft plugs and wires are the way to go. Everybody on this board will tell you the same. Same with cap&rotor. And yes, if you clean out your IAC and your TPS you should be just fine.

 

[Ray III]

Good plugs and wires make alot of difference, get some new autolites and autolite/motorcraft/other not cheap wires.