aftermarket fuel filter placement?

[turbotwo]

I was going to replace the fuel filter in my 72 coupe and found that
the stock filter was missing and instead an inline filter was
installed under the car at the point where the fuel line enters
through the floor pan. I bought one of those glass cylinder inline
filters and installed it inside the box that houses the fuel pump.
Now the car runs terribly like its running out of gas, no power. I
had to make a very sharp bend (with little pinching) to fit the inline
filter inside the box so I could tighten the 3 screws.
Could it be that the sharp bend in the fuel line and/or gravity is
having an effect on fuel delivery? It was driveable before with the
old inline filter placed below the car. I moved it inside the car in
fear of a rock hitting the glass cylinder filter. With the engine
running and increasing throttle I can see through the glass cylinder
filter and fuel is having a hard time getting through the lines. Or
could there be a problem with my fuel pump? I performed a flow rate
test per the service manual instructions and the pump was delivering
enough fuel. I could also go to my local honda dealer and buy an OEM
filter I guess. Thanks.
-Henry

[dealadayray]

The fuel filter is the same as the 73-79 Civic. Should be on the shelf in
Pep Boys for two bucks. When replacing the fuel filter I always pull the
pump. That way I'm not taking a chance of breaking off the inlet to the
pump. Seen to many go that way.
Bill