'02 Fuel Pump

[Bullmeister]

Have an '02 explorer, needs new fuel pump, question is, doing this myself in garage can I handle removing the fuel tank half empty or would best cut a hole inwhich case I would half to purchase additional equipment. Probably never have to replace again, hopefully. Anyone? What are advantages and disadvantages to both. And is there a thread on how to remove the tank?
Support the troops.

 

[Javadog123]

1/2 empty fuel tank would be heavy, I always cut holes if the fuel pump is on top of the tank. Then when finished i paint the edges where the cut was made and seal with rtv. I like to cut with a 3" high speed cutter (air powered). Usually cut 3 sides and then pry open

 

[tower]

1/2 tank would be heavy. When I did mine i removed the filler tube and pumped out the fuel with a hand pump, dropped the tank fixed the sending unit and put the tank back in about 3 hrs with just basic hand tools and ramps. It was one of the easier things I have done to the truck.