Old '87 ranger been sitting in folks yard few years. fires up fine, but spits and sputters going down the road

Could be . Does it only do this until it warms up ?

check your fuel filter and pressure in fuel pump

I would first pop of fuel filters and check that rig may have only one but if I am not mistaken mine had one on firewall and one in line. both are like 15 dollars a piece try that first if not that then fuel pump. Another thing you could do is go to gas tank open then cap have someone turn on the ignition switch and listen you should hear the pump engage if not replace let me know if that helps but those are cheapest fixes I would start with first at shop

When was last tune up? Plugs, wires, all filters & fluids? Especially fuel filter. I'd start there and run a good fuel system cleaner through it.

yes replace battery the computer cant work on a dead battery ..

Sounds to me like your choke is malfunctioning. Take the cover off of your carb when cold and see if the choke (top buttefly valve) is closed. It should be when cold. (you do not say what year truck you have so I am guessing as to the answer)

Have the shop check fuel pressure at the fuel rail. Maybe the pump impeller has failed. If fuel pressure is good, your timing chain/belt may have slipped.

change the fuel filter. its most likely clogged and starving the car and while it sits it gives itself time to reaccumulate the proper fuel.

Replace your oil pressure sending unit. Usually costs about $10.

Check For Loose Or Misplaced Rocker Arms,Also Bad Hydraulic Lifters,Sam