Ford Fuel Filters / Carb Problem

I like Ford engineering but they sure dropped the ball on the inline
fuel filter that takes a 15/16" wrench.

My '77 Ford pickup had a gas leak where the filter meets the carb and
in tightening the screw-in filter, the connection started spewing gas.
I had a 15/16" wrench on the filter and though the long handle gave me
way more leverage than I needed for such a small fitting, I didn't
think I was putting too much torque on the wrench because it was
turning very easily as though the filter were loose.

So... Does anyone know of any good "Indian tricks" to resolve such an
issue? I'm not sure yet if I split something on the carb or stripped
the threads but clearly, somethings going on there that's fairly
serious.

Has anyone had any success with pipe joint compounds or teflon tape on
these threads? Since it's a fuel system, I had assumed the gas might
eat right through the teflon tape.

Any help that might help me avoid replacing the carb is GREATLY
appreciated.

John