[Vwdiesel] [Audi-VW-Diesels] Gas in 82 diesel vanagon!!!! Can it damage

[Val Christian]

> > Do be careful draining the tank. A tank of diesel mixed with gasoline
> > is as flammable as pure gasoline. Much more dangerous to handle than
> > pure diesel.

I have vivid memories of a local pilot, who decided to drain off 
fuel from his Taylorcraft, one crisp, clear Sunday morning.  He 
placed a spackle bucket under the wing, and opened the fuel sump
drain.  About 45 seconds later, there was a "woosh" which ultimately
engulfed his plane.

The investigator advised that on a cool day, with little humidity in the
air, there was static discharge from the movement of the fuel, which 
ultimately caused the ignition of a suitably flammable cloud of 
gasoline and air.   

Gasoline cans, and plastic containers marketed for gasoline, are
are constructed with conductive materials.  Additionally, automotive
tires are similarily designed to be conductive.  

In draining your tank, I would consider doing it away from your house, 
downwind of your house, and into a conductive pan.  Disposing of 
diesel fuel laden with gasoline will be interesting.

Val