What I have done is to edit the config files to change the renown required for equipment upgrade (but not crew upgrade) to zero. That way I can get the new equipment when needed. As pointed out earlier, some of the equipment is worthless and some priceless.
I use SH3CMDR to upgrade my crew as I see fit. I sometimes will upgrade their "experience" in the crew config file also.
I then use the renown gained to mark the progress in my career.
Next I go out and usually get sunk.
