My fuel pump quit on my 98 xj can I just install an in line pump to avoid dropping the tank and replacing the old one or is it a waste of time and money?

 

I don't know that you'll still be able to get flow thru the old pump in that scenario. Depending of what year and submodel that you have it may not be worth the attempt. Some require dropping the tank and others do not.

 

97+ Requires dropping the tank (or cutting a large-ish access panel in the cargo area - though this will probably be no easier than dropping the tank).

I have not bumped into many threads here regarding successful use of an inline pump. So I'm not inclined to think it is a common or easy modification. But I have no first-hand experience with it.