I realize Gordy that after reading what I posted above you're a bit overwhelmed. Let's consider making the carb level.
I don't know the size, but is there a 45* copper plumbing elbow that might be inserted between the reed box and carb? If you can't get lucky here, how about going to the auto parts store and looking through their molded heater hoses to find one with the same I.D. Then you could slice off 45* and fab an adapter. This way you could leave the exhaust the way it is. We can discuss a better support if you like this adapter idea better.