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How do you know if the 1994 ford ranger shut off switch for fuel pump is on?

There isn't a readily accessible, visually identifiable "on/off" switch for the fuel pump on a 1994 Ford Ranger like there might be on some other vehicles. The fuel pump is controlled by the engine computer (Powertrain Control Module or PCM). The PCM activates the fuel pump relay when certain conditions are met (key on, engine cranking).

Therefore, you can't directly see if a fuel pump "shut off switch" is on. To determine if the fuel pump is *receiving power*, you'll need to perform some diagnostic checks:

* Check the fuel pump relay: This is a much more likely culprit if your fuel pump isn't working. Locate the relay (usually in the underhood fuse box) and swap it with a known good relay of the same type. If the problem goes away, the original relay is bad.

* Check the fuel pump circuit for power: This requires a multimeter. You'll need to access the fuel pump wiring connector (often near the fuel tank) and check for power at the connector with the key in the "on" position but the engine not running. Caution: Be careful working around fuel systems. Disconnect the battery's negative terminal before working on electrical components near the fuel tank. A wiring diagram for your specific Ranger year and engine is highly recommended for this step.

* Listen for the fuel pump: When you turn the key to the "on" position (but before cranking the engine), you should hear a brief whirring sound from the fuel pump area (usually near the rear of the vehicle). This indicates the pump is receiving power and priming. If you don't hear this sound, the pump may not be receiving power or it may be faulty.

* Check the inertia switch: Some Ford Rangers have an inertia switch (a safety device to cut power to the fuel pump in a collision). This is usually located under the dashboard or in the engine compartment. Check to see if it's tripped (usually indicated by a button that needs to be pushed back in).

In short: There's no visible "fuel pump shut-off switch" to check. Instead, troubleshoot the system to find out why the fuel pump isn't receiving power or functioning. A repair manual specific to your 1994 Ford Ranger will be very helpful.