Slow, Driving Rustoration 1972 Dart

If it were me going to drive the car 500 miles home, I’d siphon the tank as dry as possible, fresh fuel, ( or run on a boat gas can) change oil, fuel filter and nurse her home.
Of course make whatever brake repairs needed to be safe.
Take her to a Midas or mineke and let them throw a muffler and tail pipe on. I’m sure you can convince the muffler shop the let you do a safety inspection while she is on the exhaust lift.
I would put off the carb, brake job, tune up til your in your own garage.
Keep the rolling around on the round to a minimum till you get home.
Just my .02