Fuel starvation on 92' 6mshq

So i picked up a boat with a 1992 Yamaha 6hp 6mshq and i replaced the thermostat. it was running on my stand and just stopped. fast forward a weekend later i took apart the carb and changed the fuel pumps diaphragms. i can see that the fuel pump is getting fuel at first but once its runnning the white inline filter starts to drain out and doesnt refill. so ive traced where it gets its vacuum from and its not blocked. when i try to start it now it generally needs a squirt of starting fluid and then i have to crank the handle hard against the throttle stop in neutral. if i actuate the choke in and out i can keep the motor running. kinda lost on this motor since i cant seem to figure it out. ive tested the CDI coils primary and secondary they allcheck out. also tried a new bulb in the fuel line, gas tank, tried a hanging gas tank as well. if you have any ideas let me know. please.

Some fuel parts are one way, you need to double check that the flow is in the correct direction.