Daniel -
Here are a few things to try:
1. Set your "secret" settings in AE to purge every 5 frames. To get to the settings, hold down the Shift key while selecting Preferences.
2. Split your project into smaller pieces.
3. Render out Targa files, then, after the crash, at least you will have everything up until the crash saved, at which point you can try the render from the crash frame. Then import your Targas and render out whichever format you need.
4. Read this:
http://generalspecialist.com/2007/02/troubleshooting-after-effects-7.asp
Good luck!
Joe Bourke
Art Director / WMUR-TV
