The basic engine is a simple air pump, That thing is getting un adjusted air somewhere causing the idle to stay high. Also causing a lean condition most likely. All the carburetor is is an air fuel metering device. and the intake dispurses that air fuel mix evenly through out the engine, any air entering the engine in any other way is a LEAK, and causing a high idle, unless you have the timming all jacked up.

More than likely an air leak.

Which has already been stated.