gas leak on my 2000 Ranger

Easiest to lift the bed - usually. If it's empty, 4 people can very easily lift it. 2 guys can pick it up and set it back on the rear tires. By removing the bed, you will be able to see the top of the tank and the fuel system in it's entirety. Hopefully, it's just a clip on a fuel return line. Dismantlers are the best resource for replacement parts like fuel lines if you have a break. You could make a repair but all things considered, Safety first. Don't save money by doing something that could fail later and cause a fire.

When replacing my fuel pump it was much easier to remove the bed. 6 bed bolts, a rear bumper electrical connector and 2 tank hoses.