Carb bonnet question?

[mnm99]

I just picked up a new car and it has the carb bonnet enclosure. I noticed the rod for the linkage that goes though the enclosure has a lot of play side to side like the bearing is bad. I didn't take anything apart yet. What should I look for and is there anything I should replace? Is there any gasket I should get before I take it apart? Thanks

[vinces427bb]

does the end of the linkage have a spherical end that is made to move some for mis-alignment or its possible that the rod is coming loose from the carb
does the top come off the carb bonnet assembly for visual inspection???