help with a diesel question

[The Radium King]

Originally Posted by Anker

A little more explanation.

The issue is that diesel acts as a lubricant for the fuel injection system. Pure gasoline will wash the lubricant away and cause extreme wear.

As long as there is enough diesel oil in the gas/diesel mixture to act as a lubricant you won't damage the car.

Of course, its better to be safe than sorry.

I doubt there was any damage to the rental car that started this discussion. 20% gas should have enough lubrication left.

the issue is also the temperature of combustion; gas burns hotter. in a vw that may well have aluminum heads on an iron block then you can quickly pop a head gasket when things heat beyond design tolerances (expansion). i killed a diesel rabbit that way many years ago.

[BoxMann]

Originally Posted by Racer Boy

He was in Denmark. Many European cars are diesel.

I'm aware, and Europeans are more used to Diesel than Americans. But many of the people who rent cars in Europe are Americans. With the risk of a blown engine because some American tourist made a mistake, there is a decent amount of risk in renting diesel powered cars. I wouldn't do it if I owned a car rental company.

[Anker]

That's why every diesel car I have rented in Europe has had "DIESEL ONLY" stickers in the cabin and ion the filler cap!

[BoxMann]

Originally Posted by Anker

That's why every diesel car I have rented in Europe has had "DIESEL ONLY" stickers in the cabin and ion the filler cap!

Yes, that's very helpful for the people who bother to notice it and read it and comply with it.

It's not very helpful for people who don't.

Exhibit A: the OP