Newbie From Miami, Florida!!!

[Scottsdale403]

Hey yall! I just got me a 1978 Scottsdale Pick up!!!! I am very excited to restore it!
I have been google-ing forums, but i think i just hit jack pot! I have been reading a lot and im wondering if anyone can give me advice on where to shop, lift or no lift, performance parts etc!!!

This pickup had/has the following:
350 Diesel Equipment(Has a 403 Oldsmobile 15k miles)
Fleetside Pickup Box
3.40 rear axle ratio
Used to be 25 Mariner Blue Solid
Scottsdale Equipment
and some other specs

As you can imagine i have a million questions!!!!

I guess first would be the heart of this truck. I like the engine thus far! Runs and turns on great, but how can i improve gas mileage? Intake? i have a rochester 2 corroborator, my intake looks like it belongs in the trash and well i have two 20 gallon tanks

I am not a 10/10 mechanic, would put my self as a 5/10, i have experience, but im 21 and mechannic is not my major in college.