A properly sized filter can go before or after the pump. Biggest problem I've seen with filters before the pump is leaking. They can allow air to get sucked in, making you think it's starved for fuel. If you put an inline filter before the pump, seal the connections with Hylomar.
The originals on these trucks were sediment bowls on top of the fuel pumps. Problem with them was that you couldn't clean them without spilling fuel.
The important part is to have a filter and maintain it. Glass bowls are nice, allow visual inspection. I prefer a sediment bowl followed by a paper filter. If the filter gets plugged, you should be sure the fuel line is clean before putting in a new one.
