thanks for all the help! <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cheers.gif" alt="" />
update: had huge problems getting the fuel filter off. the rear line (from tank to filter) was easy, but the front line (from filter to engine) was siezed. so i ended up removing the front line and filter as one piece. but the sucker was seized. couldn't get it to separate at all. so i now have a new front line to go with the new fuel filter.
it's been a month, but i am still having starting issues, which seem to get worse as time passes...new post later today after i gather my thoughts.