1. Don't Start the Engine: This is the most important step. Starting the engine with gasoline in the diesel tank can cause severe damage, as the fuel system isn't designed to handle gasoline.
2. Drain the Tank:
* If you caught the mistake early and only put a small amount in: You might be able to siphon the gasoline out of the tank.
* If you've put a significant amount in: It's best to have a professional mechanic drain the tank. This is because the gas will likely have mixed with the diesel, and a complete drain is necessary to prevent further issues.
3. Flush the Fuel System:
* Your mechanic will likely flush the fuel system, including the fuel lines, filters, and injectors, to remove any remaining gasoline.
4. Replace the Fuel Filter: It's essential to replace the fuel filter after a gasoline contamination incident, even if the tank was fully drained.
5. Inspect for Damage: While the mechanic is working on your truck, ask them to check for any damage caused by the gasoline.
Important Note:
* The severity of the damage depends on how much gasoline was put into the tank and how long it sat there before being drained.
* If you've put a significant amount of gasoline in, you may need to replace parts of the fuel system, which can be expensive.
* Never use a fuel additive to try to "fix" the problem. These additives are not designed to handle this situation and could make things worse.
Prevention is Key: The best way to prevent this from happening is to be extra careful when filling up your diesel truck. Double-check the fuel nozzle and the pump markings to make sure you're using diesel fuel.
