"Curiosity" type question....

[cobram at juno.com]

Per Lindgren <lindgre at online.no> writes:

> I haven't noticed that, but what I have noticed is that LHD cars
> usually has the fuel filler on the right side, RHD (read: Japanese)
usually
> has it on the left side. This is practical, because when you pull up to

> the pump, you wont have the problem of slamming the driver's door into
> the fuel pump when you get out of the car.


I don't think there's much rhyme or reason anymore, it's put on the side
that the manufacturer has always put it on for most cars so as not to
confuse brand loyal customers.  American Cars and many of those made for
the US market have for the most part filler necks on the drivers (left)
side.  This was probably a very conscious decision back in the day when
there was no such thing as Self Serve gasoline.
Since most gas stations had small covered islands you could pull up to
the pump and communicate your needs to the pump jockey while keeping any
inclement weather on the opposite side of your open window and gas
filler.  Having the filler on the drivers side also makes it much easier
to keep an eye on the pump jockey and the pump itself making sure it's
zero'd before filling and final price and quantity can be verified
without getting out of the car.
If the filler is in the middle, under the "hood", license plate or on
both sides all bets are off.....

I personally find it much more convenient when the vehicle has the filler
on the drivers side.

BCNU,
http://www.geocities.com/cobramsri/

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