If it took hitting the tank to get the pump to run I'd get another pump & be ready to change it when this one fails. It's showing signs of going kaplooey by not running at times.

 

IF you go with replacing the pump .. Make sure you buy Oem brands Delphi or ac delco ..

IF you go with an cheap aftermarket I would suspect the tank to be dropped again within an 6 month period.

 

This has happened to me before because my fuel sending unit made the gauge go all over the place. Mine ended up being gummed up fuel injectors though. Either way, whether it is fuel pump or injectors, it'll be pricey unfortunately. :/

 

Agreed on the Ac delco