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I just filled my Isuzu NPR truck with unleaded gas, instead ...

Sent to Car Experts November 3 2007 at 10:33 AM
   

I just filled my Isuzu NPR truck with unleaded gas, instead of diesel! What do I do? Should I siphon out the gas and replace with diesel? If so, will everything be OK?

 

Optional Information:
2003 Isuzu NPR truck diesel

Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Status:  Closed   Value: $9
Answer
November 3 2007 at 10:39 AM (5 minutes and 58 seconds later)
         
REPLIEDCheck Mark

Hello!

First; do not start the engine; if gasoline enters the engine it can result in severe mechanical damage...

Siphoning is not likely to completely empty the tank; the tank must be removed and manually drained to make sure all gasoline has been removed. Also, replacing the fuel filter at this time is a good idea, as removng the tank may stir up any sediment nside.

Unless the vehicle is at a place where the tank can be safely removed and cleaned, the vehicle should be towed and not started.

Hope this is helpful; if so, please click my accept button.... thanks!

Steve7654 -- Auto Service Technician -- 99% Positive Feedback on 1795 Car Accepts
27 yrs ASE L1 Master Technician, Service manager
Reply
November 3 2007 at 10:42 AM (2 minutes and 49 seconds later)
         
I drove a little way, but stopped as soon as I knew something was wrong. If I just decide to siphon the tank and re-fill with diesel, what are the chances that things will be ok?
Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Reply
November 3 2007 at 11:06 AM (24 minutes and 35 seconds later)
         
Reply to Steve7654's Post: I did drive 70 yards. I need the truck quite urgently. Will siphoning be ok, if I didn't want to remove the tank completely?
Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Answer
November 3 2007 at 11:12 AM (5 minutes and 39 seconds later)
         
ACCEPTEDCheck Mark

If the vehicle was run, the fuel sysyem should be disassembled and flushed with diesel to remove any gasoline in the system, in addition to physically removing and draining the tank. This is the best way to avoid any damage that has not yet occurred.

Sure, you can just try siphoning the tank and refilling it, but you still have fuel lines and an injection ststem with gasoline in it. If you feel adventurous and want to try this, then do so... but it is not recommended as there is some chance of engine damage from the gasoline that will remain after siphoning. To improve the odds significantly of not having damage, i would suggest not taking this course of action. I cannot tell you exact odds or percentagesthere is no way to know. Personally, when dealing with the possibility of destroying a several thousand dollar engine I would prefer on the safe side.

Steve7654 -- Auto Service Technician -- 99% Positive Feedback on 1795 Car Accepts
27 yrs ASE L1 Master Technician, Service manager
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