RE: Fuel filter
Sometimes even the "oldsters" need to learn a new trick or two.
The Crap-Trap experiment is worth doing. Check it out sometime. Put one on, and report back what you find at the end of the season.
I'll bet you'll become a convert too, and start wondering about those claims of no problems.
After all with ALL of those years of flying, SOME deadsticks must have occurred!
Erring on the side of safety on this is not going to hurt.