Chevrolet Repair: Chevy Sub Fuel pump, chevy suburban, 1999 chevy suburban

Question
My 1999 Chevy Suburban stopped dead in its tracks today.  Engine still cranks over.  I had it towed to a shop.  The mechanic banged on the fuel tak and the car started.  He is recommending ~ $560 to replace the fuel pump and filter.  Any way to repair this for less?  Any suggestions on troubleshooting and eliminating these other possibilities?

Answer
Hmmm.......
Theres a lot of different avenues to take.
1) Replace the fuel pump yourself by disconnecting the battery and supporting the fuel tank with a 2x4 and a jack, remove the support straps, lower the tank taking care not to damage the lines. The fuel pump will be attached to the cover usually located on top of the fuel tank. There are a few different versions of the cover such as bolted and a lock tab type.
 When removing the fuel pump be careful not to damage the float arm.It can take some abuse, but not much.
Make sure you recover the in tank fuel filter.
This job can take a good part of your Saturday if it's your first time and your somewhat mechanically inclined.Otherwise it shouldn't take that long.
2) If the vehicle is still running, try replacing the fuel filter.
There are a few more options but I would ask for a second opinion. Not that the mechanic doesnt know what hes doing,but it's always reassuring to make sure of what the problem is.