Can damage result by using gasoline in a diesel engine?

Lets put it this way....if you actually did that you would likely
destroy the engine.

I worked for a drilling equipment company and we accidently blew the
head off a diesel engine. We replaced a gas engine with a diesel and
used the existing fuel tank. The mechanics drained the gasoline from
the tank, but left a very small amount of gasoline in the tank. Diesel
was then added (I don't remember how much) and the diesel engine was
started. It imediately blew the head completely off the engine. This
was only a small amount of gasoline mixed with diesel fuel. I can only
guess what would happen if you tried straight gasoline. If you decide
to, please take some pictures.

>> If you decide to, please take some pictures.

But please stand a long distance away while taking the pictures.

In the UK, diesel cars are very common and filling diesel tanks with
petrol (sorry, gas) is a favourite pastime of drivers. Generally the
engine grunts to a halt without apparent damage apart from requiring a
flush out and re-priming. Often the husband blows his head off at his
wife (though in truth, he is as guilty as his poor spouse).

Best