The fact that you have a CEL tells you the computer sees what it needs to be in a ready state to start.
That would indicate that your FL are good.
Again, because it will run with starting fluid, I would lean towards the VAF.
It's not the fuel filter or pump.
The fuel pump on these does not run until the ECU sees engine rotation via the distributor.
Your problem is typical of two places:
1) Did you remove the two screws on the AFM and tug on the harness to see if you can get it loose? If you did, you wrecked it...