I did this very same job a little while ago. I too have a '98. Interestingly enough my Haynes Manual shows the fuel pump assembly to be on the front in the tank. However, the real one sits on top and you have to drop the tank. No big deal. I sprayed all the bolts with WD40 the night before and everything came of without to much problem.

Once you have the tank off its a good idea to clean out any residue that might have gathered over the years.

The biggest problem I had was with getting the new fuel pump assembly fit properly and then putting the big retainer nut on. I fiddled with it for quite a while and it would not fit. Untill I found out that I hadnt pushed the assembly in far enough. With the seal and all it's a real tight fit, but you have to make sure it sits properly otherwise you wont be able to get the retainer nut/ring on, let alone tighten it.

Jeroen

Wow, what a chore. The previous owner had a skid plate on the bottom of the fuel tank - what a b**** to get that thing off (wished I made that trap door from the cargo area instead). Replaced fuel pump - cleaned everything out - put everything back together, and then... it won't stay running!!! Eventually not starting at ALL!!! Son-of-a-_____!!! I didn't hear the new pump making any noise when I put the key to the ON position, so I took it all apart again figuring I got a faulty pump.
I put a SECOND brand new pump (AirTex) and STILL no start. On a whim, I put the key to the ON position, shorted across the fuel pump relay, and boom I had pressure. Spend $5, replaced relay, and now the XJ starts and runs like a champ.
Even though the original issue might have been just the fuel pump relay going out, I am still happy I replaced the fuel pump. The old one was a mess and I cleaned out the tank well. Hopefully adding dependability to my ride.

Beware my friend! You will soon be getting hate mail and possibly death threats because you purchased a AirTex.

Here's what I just replaced in mine............

and my XJ has about 155,000 miles so who knows how long ago it was put in, couldn't have been in there to long.

I went with a Carter after listening to some of the experts here.

glad you got it all done and without too many issues... you may have fried the old worn out relay when you keyed up the new pump... did you keep first unit you picked up for when the airtex dies?

any further luck on a write up? I searched for one and I didnt see one.
I just am wondering the dimensions and all that I dont want to hack up my floor a bunch if I dont have to..just make 4 clean cuts like you have

I never seen a write either. I was going to drill a hole from the bottom side to use as an orientation point from the top. Then I was going to cut open a smallhole to check the location out.
From there I should know where to make the full size hole nice and straight.

Anyone has the write up!?