Wrapped manifold? And choke 'slip'

[S0updragon]

Hi guys. Today's questions are 1) i need to repair/replace manifold. The whole manifold is wrapped in heat cloth. Is there a good reason for it. Someone said may be to stop oil bath from boiling and another said but the exhaust bit is wrapped in with intake so bad. Any views?
2) the choke won't stay in and keeps popping out. Had it serviced and was fine but day later back again. Is this common etc? Thanks

 

[Panky]

It may be that the choke cable is a bit long and bending when you push it in then springing back. Take the bend off the top of the carb and see if the choke disc stays fully open.