So it took me about 3 weeks to do a 1-2 hour job, but i fixed it. Changed the lines on both ends of the filter and changed the return line. My problem turned out to be the hose clamps - used the cheap ones at first. Instead of squeezing the hose tighter, it was cutting the outer layer of rubber. The energy exerted in tightening down the hose was wasted on cutting it instead, hence the tiny leak at the interface that stunk up my car and dropped the pressure. In theory, if the tubing was reinforced with some sort of tear-resistent backing, the cheaper clamps should work. but that's just my humble opinion. It should be added to a maintenence or FAQ or sticky or something - use high pressure fuel hose and used fuel hose clamps. At any rate, Thank you everyone who helped me on the .org boards!!!!!!

But now my battery sounds weak. or maybe its my starter. all that depressurizing and repressurizing is killer on the starter set up. ah screw it...next project - hmmm.....SS brakelines? side markers? maybe the music machine....

Incidently, can the EVAP container be removed without depressurizing the fuel system?

Cheers..