Chrysler Repair: 2002 T&C mid frequency noise, mid frequency, frequency noise

Question
My 2002 town & country has a tuning fork type hum when the engine starts and while driving. I was told that it is caused by the fuel pump and should be replaced now. The over $650.00 quote from the dealership is more than I can afford at this time. The volume varies and there seems to be no negative effect on performance. Can I wait to get repairs done?

Answer
Hi Herbert,
I can't of course access the noise, but you can test that theory of it being the fuel pump. You should hear the fuel pump run for about 1 second when you turn the key from off to run (but don't move the key to the starter position). Cycle that back and forth so you get a good idea to test if that is what you are also hearing when the engine runs and you are moving. If it is the fuel pump's sound that would verify that as the source. The pump only runs continuously after the engine is started.
I wouldn't worry about it. But I would just be prepared to get road service if the pump should fail while you are driving (cell phone on board), and also you might want to think through how you would safely get to the side of the road should the pump fail. It may just be a normal noise level so I would not be inclined to remove and replace the pump at this time.
If it is a different sound that you are getting than the sound for the first second when you turn the key, then I would try another mechanic to see if he can identify the source.
Roland