Gas in a Diesel engine? Quick help!

[jfish]

Hey guys, I know this is the wrong board but I trust your advise. Just found out one of my guys at work pumped 20 gals of gas in my Cummins 5.9, and ran (idle) a short distance back to the dock before she cut off. SO! I'm thinkin pump the tank, bleed the lines and injectors, maybe change the oil? WHat else, and what is the likelyhood of damage. Never mind the big label "DIESEL ONLY" at the fill neck. Just when I thought it would be safe to go on vacation for a few days.... %$$#^&!!!!
JIM

[GWcpa]

That really sucks. I did a google search and found an old thread on Edmunds about this. A dealer put gas in a new Duramax and here is what was suggested to do:

"

I called another dealer and told him what happened. His response: there's definitely damage possible. He recommended I ask specifically for the following from the dealer who made the mistake:

1. Visually inspect and replace seals if there is any swelling.
2. Replace the fuel filter and water separator.
3. Flush (not drain) the entire fuel system.
4. Replace the injection pump.
5. Document in writing that you have done the above.
6. Warranty the work for an extended period of time. "

Of course you don't have a dealer to blame. Injector damage is possible, I suppose as well. What a dumb mistake.

[ReelEscape]

how big is your tank?? i've been told up north during winter truckers purposefully mix in gas to keep from jelling up.....try boatdiesel.com do a search there, very helpful site.

best of luck, Rob

[pursuit_2150]

The percent gas to diesel is the key. Some units will run with up to 15%. I'm not sure in direct injection. What model number Cummins. ISBM 215? Call the Cummins marine dealer I'm sure he has seen this before.

[Teasers]

Go to the Virginia board and pose the question to Motorhead. He is a certified Cummins mechanic and manages a fleet at his work.

Keith

[dfishwiz]

The fix, drain all the gas from the tank.Fill tank with diesel

Remove the fuel filter,pump fresh diesel fuel through
the system.There is a pump on side of the fuel filter.
Install a new fuel filter,start it up.

It will run like crap for a minute or two,might stall a couple of
times. It will finally clear up.

[BUDDYP]

Hey that is really tough. I came in to Rudee years ago and went to the bathroom and my Buddy pumped 30 Gallons of Gas in my diesel tank. Fred Feller told me just put a can of 30 weight oil in the tank and top it off with more diesel fuel and it will be fine. Never had a problem after. Might be worth a try before spending all the time and money on pump out and the rest. Of course change your filters a few times. FYI Buddy Perry

[HIT N RUN]

Drain the tank & refill. Then remove the fuel return line & put it in a gas can . Then start pumping the Racor till you have filled the 5 gal can from the return line. Re connect the return. Then crack all the injector lines at the injectors & turn the engine over till they have spit alot of diesel. Maybe five, 10 second cranks pausing between cranks to keep the starter cool. Then tighten all but the farthes 1 from the injector pump. Then start the engine & once running close the last injector. Listen to see if she smooths out with no pinging or new sounds & if ok then check the oil for any funny odors & keep an eye on things for awile such as fuel consumption. Exsessive smoke ect. Most likely all will be OK. Good luck. Bill REEL FANCY

[dfishwiz]

The fuel will move past the injectors. I wouldn't bleed them. I only bleed injectors when air is involved.

[AquaMan]

If tank is better than 150 Gallons, top with diesel and run it. No harm.