Fuel Concern

[climber-420]

(Mods,move this if need be.)

I got a smokin deal on an old jerry can, and the guy who had it, had kept kerosene in it. There is still some in it right now. My question, is it safe to dump out, then fill with regular gas(87 octane). I am just a little worried that all of the kerosene may not comeout, then get mixed with the regular gas, and get into the fuel system, then who knows what will happen to the truck. Is there a certain way I can go about cleaning it? Thanks.

 

[soonenough]

If you emptied the can and left the lid open, wouldn't any remaining kerosene evaporate given enough time? I'm not sure what kind of residue would be left behind though

 

[DiploStrat]

Not a Problem

Simply not an issue. Gasoline is far more volatile than kerosene and will dissolve any residue that you might worry about. In fact, if your vehicle's fuel tank is nearly empty, you could probably simply pour the kerosene into the tank and top up with gasoline. Would tend to lower the octane a bit, but most modern cars have engine control modules that adjust the advance as needed. If you have less than a lead foot, you might not even notice.

You wouldn't believe the garbage I have poured into gas tanks over the years. Never knew what was REALLY in those drums in the hut. :Wow1:

N.B. While you can pour diesel into a Jerry can that has been used for gasoline, I would NOT, never ever, pour gasoline into a diesel vehicle fuel tank.

 

[ntsqd]

Other than trying to add the first couple of gasoline fills from the can into nearly full fuel tanks I wouldn't worry about it. As noted it will tend to reduce the octane, so try to add it to the most fuel reasonably possible to minimize that effect.

 

[climber-420]

thanks for the responses. tried it, and, the motor stopped.

 

[DiploStrat]

Hmmm.

Twenty litres of gasoline is more than enough to counteract any kerosine varnish, etc.

How long was that can empty? Was it rusty? Could you have a blocked fuel filter?

Good luck!

 

[R_Lefebvre]

Oh geez, I was going to suggest you run the first tank or two through a lawnmower or something instead. I don't like taking chances with crap fuel if I can avoid it.