Has anyone ever added an inline fuel filter being the one in the tank is not truly a filter. And is it possible w/ no side effects. any help would be greatly appreciated I just don't like the idea of nothing filtering the gas??? thks

 

the 2003 came with an external filter bolted on the chassis near the abs pump area.

 

Never!
Fuel pump strainers act as a line of defense against fuel system contamination. Strainers filter out common contaminants found in gasoline such as dirt/dust and other particulate matter, as well as gasoline varnish.
If you have the desire to add an inline filter, get parts to properly connect/secure & check for leaks.