IBend, if push comes to shove you can look for a replacement filter assy that still has the mesh in place. Place an ad on the Parts Wanted board, search Ebay, or hit swapmeets in your area. I have an oilbath from my 59 Apache 283 that I replaced which is in good condition but fits the 2bbl carb. Yours may be for the 4bbl. I know the bottom piece is different but not sure about the piece with the mesh.
