On occasions when I have filled jerrycans at my place of refuelling here in town, I have found that the bowser digits do not always correspond what I perceived to be correct fuel intake.
My interpretation of the fact is that a metal jerrycan holds 20 litres of liquid if filled to the bottom of the spout.
A while ago I approached the owner of the business and he dutifully had the fellas who service the bowsers around to test them(or so he says). He says that they said that the digits were working 100%
Last week I filled a jerry with 21.76 litres. Mentioned this to owner and he got a bit narked and said to talk to some one else about it as it wasn't his problem.
So I did and made contact with a fella in the Trade Measurement Section of Weights and Measures.
Here is his reply to my email:
I advise that we have received your complaint. Before we can investigate this matter we require the following information.
What is the business name and address of the trader?
What is the fuel type?
What was the price per litre and the total price paid for this transaction?
What is the number of the petrol pump dispenser?
What type of fuel containers did you use? Plastic or metal?
Are the containers marked with a capacity mark?
Did you fill the containers to the capacity mark or to
the neck of the container?
I can advise that:
1) the metal 'army' type jerry cans will hold approx 22 litres if filled to
the neck
2) the plastic jerry cans can soften and stretch with heat and age.
3) none of these containers are calibrated reference measures and their accuracy may be arguable.
You will be advised of the outcome of any investigation conducted by the Inspector.
We are unable to advise when the investigation will be completed.
So now I am going to measure the diesel into another jerry to see just how much there is really in the can before I take the matter further.
Cheers