Originally Posted by billt460
Originally Posted by csandste
Ran some Techron through a tank and got it down to 30 miles left on gauge. If I'm not cleaning, I like to fill when it's above 1/4 tank--
doesn't gas cool the fuel pump?
Yes it does. I had a co worker with a Ford V-10 Excursion who was constantly running around with an empty tank. And never put more than $10.00 in when he finally did manage to buy gas. He went through 3 fuel pumps in just over 6 years. (All OEM dealer installed).
I explained to him why you should keep the fuel pump submerged in fuel, because it helps cool it. (Not to mention you won't have to be living at the gas station, pulling in every day for a few lousy gallons).
From then on he never let his tank get below 1/2. He's still running the same pump several years later. I'm not saying every make and model will do this. But his did it 3 times, and stopped as soon as he did. Take from that what you will. It made it pretty clear to me.
I never let my tanks get under 1/2 full because of this. Except if and when I'm running a cleaner or additive in the fuel. Then I'll top it off, and run it down to just below 1/4... But never lower. No reason to. It's all risk with no reward.
THIS! I've had to put several FPs in company vehicles, and it usually resulted after I ran it pretty low because I was running late to get somewhere. Now I fill it every day on the way home-but, of course the last Transit blew one at 55K or so anyway & had to be towed in on a flatbed...