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BillandCarole's avatar
Nov 05, 2014

2008 Chevy Fuel Tank Question

We had some tense moments this morning when our fuel level light came on and the tank read "empty". The fuel level light is supposed to come on at about 7 gallons. Ours was on quite a long time and for more than a few miles. Exactly how much is left in the tank when you run out of fuel? Its a diesel. When we filled the tank it took only 20 gallons which if my math serves me right means that we still had 6.5 gallons. How much of that 6.5 gallons can we use? And will a diesel start by just putting fuel in the tank and cranking it?
Thanks All
Bill and Carole

11 Replies

  • Do not let your diesel run out of fuel. Very hard to restart. You will have to go through the process of re-priming. Simply cranking it won't get it done if you run it dry.

    I try at all costs to refuel when the gauge reads 1\4.
    I think our Duramax has about 7 gallons when the idiot light first comes on...so you do have a few miles left before you get into real trouble...but, not many if you are towing...