the front suspension could be hurting the fuel economy...but not that much!!!! start replacing fuel filter, air filter then move on to rebuild the carb or adjust it and the choke, check the vacume advance to make sure it functions properly, new plugs....gap them...check air gap in distributor check or replace plug wires....maybe find a car nut to hang with and they might help ya???? get a factory service manual and start learnin....????
