Help understanding the engine bay

The only thing I have to add here is to suggest to get rid of that thin air cleaner, they absolutely kill power. A taller filter element will do fine if you have a long enough stud in the carburetor!
Thank you! Good to know. I didn't do any research and I'm responsible for that thing air cleaner. The carb looks pretty nasty right now so I'll give that a clean and get a proper filter.