Welcome to LS
Try this guide out help with the basics.
http://forums.d2jsp.org/topic.php?t=57524636&f=74LS is a very gear driven game. It's possible to make it to MQ with no fg spent, but very slow process.
Most people who have gear tend to do group play - where 5 people meet up at lvl 1 and play straight through to lvl 71. Of course this
requires that you already have gear purchased and planned out.
I would highly suggest that you purchase some new weapons and armor, it will make a huge improvement on your damage & survival.
Go for enhanced effect mod on your wep and armor.