replaced the fuel pump about 2 months ago. It's when i disconnect the MAP sensor itself that it acts better, not the hose...
hmm,
1. did you try to measure the map output voltage at all?
2. did you test the tps voltage?
3. did you measure the fuel pressure?
4. did you check the ignition timing? is the distributor rotor positioned properly (did you take the distributor out and maybe missed the mark and it is off by a tooth? that might make sense if by disconnecting the map your ignition timing advance goes to zero although i never tried it to be sure it would explain why it starts to run better if you have the wrong position on the rotor).
check those and report back, a cheap timing light is about $15, you'll have to use it in the shade but it's good enough to get an idea what happens when you disconnect the map sensor - don't want to do it on mine so i don't store a code.
also check the rotor position when cyl 1 is in compression at TDC to make sure it's lined up with the plug wire (i think it's marked on the distributor body anyway). And the least likely make sure you got the right firing order (i'm sure you do but who knows)