Noisy Fuel pump on 2005 4x4 (500)

[Scooby]

When ridding out on the trails, every once in awhile the fuel pump starts "thumping" usually you can get it to stop by just slapping it with your hand.
I figured its probably uround $40 so I'll just replace it and carry the old one with me as a spare.
I called the dealership today and the said $150 for the pump P/N: 4011545
So now I think I better make sure that is the real problem before shelling out the cash.

I am going to stop and get a fuel filter on the way home and give that a try first.
Can anyone think of anything else that could be causing this ?
Or have you ever heard of this before ?

The ranger only has about 80 hours on it.

[jackh]

mine does this also. especially when you insert the key and turn it to the on position but not cranking the engine. it will thump a min and then stop. the dealer said this was a problem from the factory and they "fixed" but it still thumps sometimes, just not nearly as often. maybe ive just gotten used to it and dont notice idk...