When trouble shooting an engine,carb or ignition problem, first Be sure of the compression. Do a compression test with all the spark plugs out! if there is a 20 psi difference in compression between the highest and lowest reading,you might need reboring,even though the engine runs at times. You might need a competent old school mechanic that can troubleshoot carbs with vacume leaks. One that can check timing and adjust fuel air mixtures. Also where is the exhaust leak coming from? Back in the day we disconnected the EGR for fuel milage,they are sensitive to carbon build up! Another old school trick to make the carb fuel up, is to hand choke the top of the carb while it is running, that is to momentarily cover the top with hand ,or rag ,as in to smother the carb to make it suck the gas in! All these procedures should be cheap and the carb man should not scalp you. Old fords are a labor of love and a learning process,get her done!
Rtomas771 is in your area if he cant help you ,I am about an hour below you. If I can help you I will charge you supper and some transportation fuel.