Drilling fuel tank ?

[affinite]

I have to drill some holes in the top of my SS diesel fuel tank to fit a new gauge. The question is how much, if any, of the fuel should I remove first. I can catch swarf etc from an inspection hole so it is the danger of fire that Im concerned about.
Any thoughts ?
PS - I obviously wouldnt be asking the question if it were a ptetrol tank but I read somewhere that diesel takes some lighting ?
Thanks

 

[alan17]

No need to remove any. The fire risk is next to non existent.

 

[fisherman]

I drilled holes in a baffle inside the tank with fuel still in, you'd have to heat all the diesel considerably to get the fumes to ignite.

 

[Moonshiners]

Just drill it really slowly, if it's SS, you'l save your drill bits a chore and mights save yourself some eyebrows.

 

[Stemar]

I agee with Alan - the fire risk is very close to nil. Go slow, use a sharp drill and use a few drops of oil a lubricant. If the drill stops producing swarf, stop and change or sharpen it. SS work hardens quicte easily if it gets too hot and becomes VERY difficult to drill

 

[affinite]

Thanks guys - confirmed what I thought