Whiteice
Yes, there are two ways to destroy the Pinger. The one you are referring to is similar to a Hijack in Halo. You have to hit the 'sweet spot' and land on top of the Pinger (its tactical blind spot). You then get a button prompt to forcefully remove the operator. The easiest way is to wait for the Pinger to stand next to a tall object or a ravine, and try to power jump on top of it. Sometimes gamers will do a power bash, but because of the after-freeze I do not recommend it.
The second option is pretty much what you would think...shoot the hell out of it. Swarmer, Jaw, C4 if you can get to it...just blow it up over time, but keep moving so it cannot get a sight on you. And do not get too close, because it's melee move is devastating.
Hope that helps