The pump should be able to suck it that far. I run engines on a test stand using only plastic fuel tanks on the ground. Remove the filter at the tank and leave the stock one, one is plenty.

Not sure what carb you have, but it might be time to pull the top off and check the float for proper operation.

Speaking of fuel and tanks, try a 5 gallon jug, you will use up one gallon pretty quick just filling the fuel system.

When you wire up a distributor, it doesn't matter where the rotor or vacuum unit is pointing as long as you start with #1 wire at the hole where the rotor is pointing, go the right direction, and in the right order. The idea of pointing the rotor at the driver is so you will always know where number one is. Place the vacuum advance in the most open area so you have room to rotate the distributor both directions when it come time to set the timing. When you get it right, the wires should exit the cap and run out to the plugs in a orderly manner, a few will cross each other but most will be about right.

It ran for a second, so you are all most there!

1937 Chevrolet Inline-powered Streetrod