Fuel Delivery issues

[PKRWUD]

Your last idea is your best. If there was a crack in the fuel line, you would smell fuell, and it wouldn't ever be able to build up sufficient pressure. You might have debris in the fuel line, and it would be wise to blow the line out with compressed air. The charcoal cannister and fuel return lines may be clogged, which could lead to vapor lock symptoms, similar to what you describe. Anytime the tank is down, always change the in-tank filter. It's cheap and practical. I would look into installing an in-tank electric pump with an external regulator.

Lastly, you should install an inline fuel pressure gauge, as close to the carb as possible. This will become an excellent tool for future fuel system diagnosis and tuning.

Take care,
-Chris