HELP: Swings but does not start after fuel filter replaced

[REV 2 11]

Hi guys,

need some assistance please...

I replaced the fuel filter and o-ring on a T3 hatch. The car was "shuddering" and struggling to move at times when driving, particularly noticeable when the a/c was on. After replacing the filter and o-ring though, the car swings, but does not start.

I removed the filter again, and rechecked that everything was put back correctly...which it was. Put everything back again, and still, it does the same thing. I'm out of ideas now, except that maybe i've flooded it by trying to start it for so long.

The pump runs, and fuel is clearly being pulled through the outlet pipe on the filter housing. Checked the fuses in the engine bay also, but no issues there as well.

I'm beyond frustrated at this point...been trying to get it started the entire day!

The "strainer" bit attached to the fuel pump is quite dirty and pretty full, but the car started and drove with it like that before I replaced the filter and o-ring, so I cant see that being an issue?

Please help!