Originally Posted by paulpalmer
If they change the fuel filter it should be ok after a few tanks. My sisters ex did the same to her old 306 diesel when he put a tenner of fuel in it so I got him to brim it with diesel to dilute it. After we drove it until it was close to empty (drove badly and didn't like starting) I changed the fuel filter and was perfect again
As you said... OLD 306 Diesel...
Don't ever put petrol in a modern diesel and drive. Drain and clean tank, fuel filter and fuel hoses first.
The problem is: The high-pressure diesel pump is lubricated by the diesel. Petrol doesn't lubricate so there will be excessive wear to the pump. In a worst case scenario the chippings of the pump can get into the combustion chamber. Need I say any more?
If you put petrol in a modern diesel for god's sake don't start or drive it. A new diesel pump alone can be about 1500 pounds. Of course it always depends on how much petrol is in the diesel. If it's only a few litres you might get away with it. Moreover the diesel doesn't get to the injection pump immedieately, there's quite some fuel in the fuel hoses and filter.