The fuel pump in my expy is starting to make a lot of noise which means it needs to be replaced. Is there an acess panel under the carpet to get to the fuel pump without having to drop the tank?

 

No. Drop the tank.

 

There is enough space above the tank to access the fuel pump. It's something you want to do on a lift.
Some have changed them on blocks but I'm not sure I would do it.

 

Ditto, dropping the tank is the safest way since there is no access panel.

 

Does any body have any tricks up their sleeves to make the job any easier? I've dropped tanks before but every model vehicle has their own quirks so to say.

 

Unfortunately no, it makes too much sense to put a 12"X12" access panel under a rear seat that can move out of the way.

I use a floor jack with a 1' X 3' piece of plywood. First, I release the fuel line pressure and remove the spare tire. Then I loosen the strap bolts and use a drill motor to remove them leaving 2 in place before I put the jack underneath. Bring it down slow so you don't break any hose nipples and you can disconnect the fuel lines. Have the fuel line removal tool ready before you start the job. It's the same tool that you use for the fuel filter. Remove the fuel inlet hose, and to ease removal, I used a razor blade to cut the smaller hose as they are a pain to pull off, then I replaced with new hose. Pay close attention to what hose connects where. Make sure you install a new gasket with the pump.