DEF into Diesel Engine

Brain fart of all brain farts. Fairly new at this, had just (completely) filled Diesel tank(s) and went for the DEF before I put the cap on the Diesel tank. As soon as I pulled the handle I realized my mistake (DEF into Diesel tank) but if I had to guess I'd say about 12 ounces went into a full 75 gallon tank. Well, apparently that's all it takes. Several hundred miles later, I get a "Water in Fuel Filter" warning and the truck completely shuts down. I drain the filter multiple times and the truck will run for about 2 minutes before it shuts down again with the dash lighting up like a Christmas tree including a gas pump + water drops icon. My initial research is not encouraging and I'm mortified for what I've potentially done to this owner. I'm in a small NC town and it's Sunday - this is a hail mary if ever there was one. Any input, guidance, and or suggestions greatly appreciated. Thank you.

 

Keep draining, replace filters ASAP.

 

You might get by with changing the filter a few times.
@Goodysnap @AModelCat
What town are you near?
What truck and motor?

 

I'm in Siler NC, it's a 2014 Freightliner and I'm embarrassed to say I don't know what type of engine it is. Thank you you so much for the suggestion.

 

Do not run the truck!!!!!! Tow bill will be cheaper. If DEF gets to the engine you'll most likely be replacing the entire fuel system. If you can disconnect the contaminated tank and just run off the good one until you get the tank flushed out.

Sounds like it may be too late.

WIF means it made it to the filters. Get the system flushed ASAP and pray for no long term damage.

 

Siler City? If so I know a guy not to far from you, but I don’t know if he works on trucks that new. I can pm his number if you want.

 

Thank you so much - I think I have who sounds like he knows what's up and I'm about to engage his services. Thanks again - I really appreciate your help.

 

Shut off engine on flat surface. Let it sit for 30 minutes. Open drain plug on the tank bottom to drain DEF and water in bucket. Change filters. Torque drain plug when you done.

 

Maybe of you can change the filters or the boss could have someone change them. The water separator filter is designed for that. Or keep try raining the water out of bottom of filter. If I t has has that kind of filter.

 

Traditional fuel filters do not have the ability to seporate DEF from the fuel. Some of the DEF stays suspended in the Fuel. It will not all stay in the water seporator.

Take suspect contaminated Diesel and poor it on a concrete floor. When the fuel evaporates you will see the crystals from the DEF.

Best dump the whole batch. And now that its been driven its mixed in both tanks no doubt.
Crap takes forever to clean.