1. Knocking and Engine Damage: Diesel has a higher cetane number, which means it ignites more quickly than petrol. When used in a petrol engine, this can cause uncontrolled and premature ignition, resulting in knocking or detonation. These abnormal combustion events put high stress on engine components, causing damage to pistons, piston rings, and bearings.
2. Fuel System Issues: Diesel is less volatile and has a higher viscosity than petrol. As a result, it doesn't vaporize as easily and doesn't mix well with air. This can lead to fuel injector clogging, fuel starvation, and poor fuel atomization, affecting engine performance.
3. Low Heat Generation: Diesel has a lower energy density compared to petrol. This means it produces less heat during combustion. Petrol engines are designed to operate at higher temperatures to achieve optimal efficiency. Running a petrol engine on diesel can result in incomplete combustion, increased emissions, and reduced engine power.
4. Carbon Buildup: Diesel fuel has a higher lubricity than petrol and a tendency to leave behind more residue. Over time, this can lead to carbon buildup on pistons, valves, and injector tips, affecting engine performance and causing issues like reduced airflow, poor compression, and engine overheating.
5. Compatibility Issues: Petrol engines require a specific fuel-to-air ratio and spark timing for efficient combustion. Diesel fuel's properties differ from petrol, and it requires different engine specifications. Using diesel in a petrol engine without making appropriate modifications can cause inefficient operation and may require expensive modifications or a complete engine rebuild.
It's crucial to always use the correct fuel specified by the manufacturer to avoid the potential risks and complications of using diesel in a petrol engine. If you accidentally put diesel in a petrol engine, it's best to consult a professional mechanic as soon as possible to minimize damage and properly handle the situation.
