Sorry to say, but the ground cable will have little if anything to do with your running problems. Someone mentioned vapor lock. Well, that may be...in the 50-60's vintage cars. Not in today's cars or trucks.
Frankly, based only on what you have described, focusing on the fact you had rust in your fuel filter, that is where I would focus my efforts. Where do you think the rust came from? More than likely the gas tank. Also, there may be more than one fuel filter.
Disclaimer-
Totally taking a shot in the dark here.
