"... I even tried a smaller filter. Any ideas?? "

Just curious. Does the filter need to be shorter, or a smaller diameter, in order to clear the exhaust ? There are some small filters, for 301's & LS engines that many have used, to solve clearance problems. These are only about 3" in diameter, and come in several lengths, beginning at about 3.4".

The WIX 51042 & NAPA 1042 is one of the short ones.

http://www.fleetfilter.com/filter/51042.html

https://www.oreillyauto.com/detail/...il-filter-12090/oil-filter/51042/4835458

The K&N PS-1007 is 3.8" long.

https://www.summitracing.com/parts/knn-ps-1007/overview/make/pontiac

The K&N HP-1007 is also 3.8" long & has a nut on the end.

https://www.summitracing.com/parts/knn-hp-1007