MPG experiment....1976 Dart Lite
Just a few points to make sure you get an accurate base. In the process of doing the same thing to a standard Dart.
There is a lot of discussion (sorry to talk about another board) about this same subject on the slant board where I have picked many a brain and read through posts for hours. Some great info!
Gearing wise that is up to you. Sounds counter productive to the goal of MPG as the turbo and increased gear sound more directed to performance and power. Granted, you can get those and still keep mileage, but depends what you really want out of the car. The 4 OD will help keep that under control though rpm wise while cruising I guess.
You are dead on to the direction.
I am going to start with the basics and go from there. I am going to get it into a basic state of tune. It was getting the 13 mpg with the body of the carb coat-hangered to the base plate.
I intend to try most of what is on your list. Gear and speedo confirmation is coming shortly, after the carb is installed.
I don't think the carb is junk. I just think that the moron who rebuilt it last overtightened the screws that connect the base to the main body. A quick cleanup, drill and tap, and some good screws to put it back together.
/6.org....I have a post over there too. I expect them to have some input too.
I am in the early stages. I need to get a tach, so I can see what RPM is, I need to get a vacuum gauge, so I can see where max vacuum is, etc.
I will post the MPG results after the rebuild carb is installed, and then work from there.
The goal is to be solid overall performer. Turbo can cost mileage to be sure, but that is under my control with throttle, and it might be a while, likely that is a winter project. Overall goal is efficiency, which translate to fuel economy. Turbo will be minimally invasive, if sized right, and almost non existant during cruising other then an exhaust restriction. The heat from the turbo and subsequent improvement in fuel atomization, will likely offset the exhaust restriction, yet allow, at the touch of the throttle, more horsepower, as needed.