[mtruckr]

What seems to be the case...

The original fuel pump doesn't move at all when the intake side is stopped up.
The second pump installed moves and acts like nothing is blocked...until you block the weep hole.

So I believe the first pump is actually okay, and the replacement one is sadly useless.

What I BELIEVE was the trouble spot was actually the fuel filter... trying to blow through it was quite difficult. The difference versus a new filter is significant.

Regardless, I had ordered a new fuel pump, so I will install it today... one less thing to think about for 5 years, let's hope. Also will install a new clear fuel filter and see if the beast comes back to life.

I added more gasoline using a full-sized funnel... no apparent hassles adding fuel, so I've taken 'vent hose' off the list of potential troubles for now.

However, please forward any observations/ opinions... ya just never know.