Gas in diesel -- and vice versa

[sailingharry]

My neighbor needs to remove 30 gallons of gasoline from his power boat, and then put it in another boat/car/something. I have eight 5 gallon diesel jugs. Each jug has, as is normal, probably 1/2 tablespoon of diesel in the bottom. I'm thinking that 1/2 tablespoon of diesel in 5 gallons of gas is no problem. Then, he'll give them back to me, and they will naturally have 1/2 tablespoon of gas in the bottom. When I use these jugs to put diesel in my boat, again, I don't think that's any big deal. However, back in my Navy days as Engineering Officer of the Watch, I know that fuel oil dilution in crankcase oil is not only bad for the engine, but can lead to explosions. So, I know that small percentages of contamination is perhaps worse than it seems.


Anyone see any issue with 1/2 tablespoon per 5 gallons a problem for gas in diesel or diesel in gas?

[rslifkin]

I can't imagine that tiny bit will matter in either direction. Even if it were a half ounce per can you're still under 0.1 percent. And that little gas will evaporate pretty quickly if the cans are left open for a few minutes before refilling with diesel.

[Turtle Blues]

I cross use cans frequently figuring the minor amount left is further diluted when going into the equipment tank. This is for larger equipment not extremely small engines.

Not sure I want to offer my sloppy habits as an acceptable standard for others.

[Tin Tin]

Leaving lid off in the sun will get rid of the gasoline pretty quickly.