I want to change the fuel filter on my 2000 2.5 Ranger,is this the pump switch and if it is can you just pull off the connector or have to push on something to release it

 

Inertia switch is near passenger kick panel. Red reset button should be visible. Either trip it an run engine till stalls or remove fuel pump relay from black relay box under hood and run till it stalls out.

 

I also loosen the gas cap to relieve tank pressure build up, while I have the fuel line open.

You can use something like a rubber hammer, or the side of your fist to thump & trip the inertia switch, so that it's red indicator atop the switch pops up, then as has been said, crank or run the engine until it stops, or ceases trying to start. To avoid overheating the strter motor, Don't crank it for longer than 15 seconds at a time.

If you want to disconnect the inertia switch, there is a plastic lever lock that you'll need to lift, to clear the plugs locking tang, as your pulling & wiggling it's plug from side to side to remove. Their snug, so take your time & don't lift the tang lock too high & break it.

As has been said, removing the pumps under hood power relay, or it's it's fuse can also be used to depower the pump, so we have several choices, I just thump my switch to trip it.

EDIT: Not sure about your photo, it sorta looks like the inertia switch power plug. On my 99, it's located in the passenger side foot well, on the firewall, just above the carpet. Other models have it above the passenger side kick panel. Mine has two wires in the electrical connector.

Don't forget to retighten the gas cap & reset the inertia switch after your finished.

More thoughts for consideration, let us know how it goes.

 

Just disconnect the fuel pump relay in the fuse / relay box under the hood Or let it sit for a couple of hours so it doesn't have any pressure

 

what he said^^^^^^^^^ or you can just pull the fuel pump fuse out of the distribution box. I believe mine is #9. Don't bother with the inertia switch.............I changed my fuel filter 2 weeks ago. I timed myself. I did not rush. I pulled the fuse. tried to start the truck to burn the gas off and then changed the filter.......it took me 8 minutes....if yours has not been changed in a while hit the fittings with liquid wrench and let it soak for at least an hour....i encourage you to buy the tool for $10 some people use a screwdriver but you risk messing the fitting up

go to post 15 and 16 in the following thread

Fuel filter removal - Ford Explorer Ranger Enthusiasts "Serious Explorations"®