you just lost the prime on the filter thats all, just pour a little water in the top and it should start up. The filter on my eclipse 12 does that all the time.
I don't know if they'll work on that filter, but I've extended the intake on some of my Aquaclears with old UGF lift tubes. It requires a little finesse to avoid cracking, but once on they work great.
I use any tubing or parts from other filters that will make it work. I run the pieces under very hot tap water to soften it before using so I don't crack anything.