Hubby says it is not a good idea to run the gasoline tank so low that you are almost out as you arrive at the first station.
His reason: He says that there is sediment that lies at the bottom of your gas tank as well as the fuel pump that lies in a well within your gas tank.
When the tank is run that low, the sediment first goes through the fuel pump and then through your fuel injectours or carburetour. Over time, operating in this manner fouls both areas to the point where one may have to repair the areas.
He said there are in-line fuel filters and they often clog first. However, even then, the repair or cleaning of the filters is costly and usually they fail at the most inopportune time.
He said that to replace the fuel pump in his pickup truck cost $900 and that was not including the towing service.
Lastly, he says that in the winter, even with alcohol blended gasoline, a very low gas tank may cause condesation inside the tank, thereby adding water to the gasoline.
To me, it seems it would be best to gauge my route and not max out my fuel purchases rather than risk the damage and subsequent repairs.