Direct replacement for Iron duke carb?

[Escobarclan]

I think my Sons carb is shot. Iron Duke, 1980 CJ5 . He's 15 and is saving his $$ for a new one. Looking online though, it's kinda hard to find out what exactly will replace it. We can get an OEM at the parts store but they are $379 for the same problematic carb.

I hear that there is a Weber that will work and others but they need an adaptor plate.

Any suggestions with budget in mind? We can try a rebuilt kit but as many may know, they dont always fix the problems.