Two problems related to fuel pump have been reported for the 1997 Ford Ranger. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Fuel filler tube cracks at the fuel pump, resulting in fuel pouring out and fuel vapors escaping while driving or while parked. This could result in the vehicle catching on fire. Ford is aware of the problem and sells replacement filler tubes for upwards of $500, not including labor.
Fuel is leaking from top of gas tank, replaced the fuel pump, fuel pump electric (in tank) and asy fuel tank.