Is that below the carb? Just a couple plates to control engine RPM? If so, leave 'em stuck open, cap off the vacuum port, call it a day.

 

Yes. I am also wondering if I can just remove the governor since it's just going to be a spacer.

Another question, the very top of the carburetor is taller than what the drawings show in the repair manual. But it seems to be original, except I found silicone surrounding the top base where it attached to the normal top of the carb. This probably was because it would have a vacuum leak. See picture. Since the air cleaner bolt is attached to the tower it must be used, but seems strange that the vacuum leak must be fixed with silicone.

 

Is the housing cracked there on the right side??? That would likely be a vacuum leak.....

 

No cracks in the housing. Just a crack around the entire base of this top extension or tower that holds the air cleaner which you might be able to see in this picture

 

The RTV might be taking the place of a gasket that is no longer available, or maybe the last person to work on it just didn't have one, and used RTV instead. I would think a paper gasket would be adequate to the task there. You really don't want it sucking in unfiltered air though. So, something is necessary.

 

On older trucks like this, I've seen wooden spacers heavily varnished used. They don't transmit heat. Just make sure the varnish is gasoline resistant and well cured before you bolt it on. Older stuff like this often have parts made out of unobtainium.