I have a 1999 b2500 that is hard to start and backfires through the intake. I'm trying to narrow it down between a fuel pump or injectors. I already swapped the relays and no improvement. I am getting only 20 psi at the rail running and not running. It will not hold pressure when you turn the key off. I'm thinking pump really, but I want to be sure as most of you know, money doesnt come easy. Any help is greatly appreciated

 

Welcome to the forum

Yes, it is for sure the pump.

But check if you have a 3 hose fuel filter, if so replace that first.

1999 Ranger should have 60-70psi pressure at the rail

 

I did replace the filter. The pump primes and continues to run once the engine finally starts. Just doesn't seem to supply the correct pressure. My history with pumost is generally they just don't turn on anymore. I'll try the pump I guess. More to follow......

 

Yes, it will be the pump.
Heads up on cheaper pumps, they do have warranties and they do honor them, but better to get a good pump(motorcraft) than to have to swap out cheaper pump in 6 months.

Yes, electric motors tend to fail as "no start", but that is just the motor part, the pump impeller could be loose on the shaft or there is a crack in the lift line inside the tank so fuel is just spraying out inside the tank.

Lifting the bed up or back is often the easier way to change pumps

 

engineers had a bright idea to put a rubber hose on that fuel pump and the gas just eats them up after so long, i had it happen on my 96 ranger and it done the exact same thing