I guess it's heresy, but I've heard that the filtering performance of those clear glass filters isn't very effective. I've not studied it, so I can't substantiate it. But that's what I've heard.

Poke around a little on-line and let us know what you find out. Maybe I'm not judging them fairly?

Sounds like the root of the problem is still un-resolved. How did the "dirt / crud" get into the filter to begin with? Go ahead and get some gaskets from Bruce. Everybody with SU's has a few extra in their tool box - you'll need them before its over.