[ford38v8]

Fetch, as Kube points out, your filter is not original, so no need to salvage the damaged elbow. You can use the similar elbow as is if it is the return fitting, but if the inlet fitting, it must be restricted to 1/16”.
Regarding the need for a filter, you’ll have no better argument than all internal combustion engines now use a filter. Modern engine oil keeps impurities in suspension, to be removed by the filter. The old non-detergent oil settled out impurities into sludge overnight. I believe that Kube advises against filters on your vintage due to the originals not being available. I’m fairly sure that if he had an original to install, he’d be proud to do so, but for the fact that the entire filter was replaceable rather than being a canister with internal replaceable filter.