Its like this: I am 18, I have played for the last 5 years.  I am almost entirely self taught.  I play southern Gospel, Country, and praise and worship, as well as some chior music.  I practice daily, from 1-3 hours, most of the time without music due to the fact that I wear everyone else out practicing, so they leave and I stay and play alone.   I have been priviledged to play several dozen different sets, and play with many diferent musicians.  I am always looking to improve my playing.  Several months ago I began playing KISS (Keep It Simple Stupid), going more out for simplicity and solid timing that complexity.  I began to use mostly my snare, bass and hats, and use my splashes a lot more.  Rather than long flowing fills, I have started using short choppy fills.  I began to use this with my playing country, and southern Gospel. (With execption of praise and worship, which calls for more complex playing due to timing changes)  I have noticed a difference, I have stopped recieving complaints about my playing. (I used to receive a lot of complaints about the complexity)  Also I seem to be doing much better, songs come almost second nature.  Simplicity, I have discovered, is best suitedfor most of the music I play.

All this said, I am always looking to better my playing.  I was curious as to any tips you fine musicians could give me that I could better my playing without spending money.  (I am saving every spare dime for a new kit)  maybe exercizes or anything that would help.  I will try anything that will improve my playing.

THANKS!

I think playing KISS is very smart.

I don't have a lot of great advice - when I was in your situation years ago, I just played along to records every night. It absolutely improved my skills (still do it, too).

I'd also recommend the book "4-Way Coordination" by Dahlgren and Fine. It's the one book that made a big difference in my playing - freed up all my limbs so they could work independently.

Sounds like you're on the right track to me, working on simplicity and solid timing.

Listen, listen, listen.
Pick apart albums and scrutinise professional drummers in concert.
I know you don't like this but.....
Half a dozen lessons (at least) would be a way better long term investment than a new kit, at any price.
Get the basics right and everything else will follow.

I agree as well ... completely ... 100%. 

you like pickles on your cake?!?! 

If you can't already, learning to read music would open up some more opportunities for your playing. What kind of kit are you using now? Great suggestions by everyone else, not sure I could add more.