"Is there an insulator block between the intake manifold and the carburetor?"
Lincoln, Would a phenolic or a wood spacer under the carb help?
I think they were a phenolic material.
http://www.classicparts.com/1954-62-Carburetor-Insulator-L-6-235/productinfo/81%2D212/#.WR0Couv3arU
http://www.classicparts.com/1937-54-Carburetor-Insulator-L-6-216/productinfo/81%2D211/#.WR0Cyuv3arU