ive just picked up a ed wagon and im wandering about the best cheap or even free mods i could do

Depends what you want and want to spend. Bang for buck, power and reliability, an au 4L is a great swap. Otherwise, in this order:
Longer duration and lift cam ($500~)
J3 chip ($100~)
Extractors (4499) (used around $100)
2.5" catback ($300~)
El thermos ($100)
Electronic shift kit (diy $10)
Lower it (dodgy=free, safe=$600)
All depends on your skill level and what you want out of it. You've started with the most boring of the e series, so anything is an improvement I guess.

I highly recommend the AU engine - cheap and easy conversion, surprisingly quick engine for stock.

Manual trans will help, along with a 3.45:1 rear axle. Extractors and a good exhaust will help too, but you can always do this later, as funds permit.

17" wheels, good tyres, and drop it a couple of inches - don't go to low if you live in the scrub.

Best of luck.