What happens if you put jet fuel in a gasoline engine?

Consequences of Using Jet Fuel in Gasoline Engines

Attempting to operate a gasoline engine with Jet-A fuel, commonly used in jet aircraft, can lead to severe consequences. Unlike gasoline, Jet-A fuel is incompatible with the design and requirements of gasoline engines.

Engine Stall and Inability to Operate

Upon putting Jet-A fuel into a gasoline engine, the engine would likely stall and refuse to operate. This response is comparable to using diesel fuel in a gasoline engine. While diesel engines can run on Jet-A fuel, gasoline engines cannot due to the distinct fuel characteristics.

Lack of Lubricity

A critical difference between Jet-A fuel and gasoline is the absence of essential lubricating additives in Jet-A fuel. These additives are crucial for reducing friction and wear within the engine’s moving parts. Their absence would result in accelerated wear and potential damage to vital engine components. Diesel engines, on the other hand, are typically equipped with stronger fuel systems and components designed to withstand the lower lubricity of Jet-A fuel.

Long-Term Damage

Prolonged use of Jet-A fuel in a gasoline engine can lead to significant and potentially irreversible damage. The lack of sufficient lubrication can cause premature wear of critical engine parts such as pistons, valves, and bearings. This damage can lead to reduced engine performance, increased fuel consumption, and ultimately engine failure.

Fuel System Compatibility Issues

In addition to the engine damage, using Jet-A fuel in a gasoline engine can also cause compatibility issues with the fuel system components. Jet-A fuel is a kerosene-based fuel, denser and less volatile than gasoline. Consequently, it may clog fuel lines and filters designed for gasoline, leading to fuel starvation and further engine problems.

Conclusion

Using Jet-A fuel in gasoline engines is strongly discouraged. The incompatible properties of Jet-A fuel, namely its lack of lubricity, can cause immediate engine stall and long-term damage if sustained. It is essential to ensure that the correct fuel is used in vehicles to prevent costly repairs and ensure optimal performance and longevity.