Ran out of fuel with gauge still reading 18th of tank

Off Topic a bit.... I've heard/read that having less than 1/4 tank is hard on your
fuel pump. Gas in the tank keeps the pump from getting warm/hot.

I always fill up at a little less than 1/2 a tank. Not as expensive with gas
prices what they are now.

 

I don't think that is true. The pump is in a bucket. The fuel return dumps the bucket full of fuel, so until you are down to the last gallon or so it's always submerged. OP, clean the fuel sender sensor. Ethanol fuel boogers things up pretty good. When I took mine out it had gunk on it, but from F to 1/2 tank it was worn shiny (where I keep my fuel level most of the time).

 

Gasoline travels right through the pump motor and all if there is not enough gas to cool the pump it does not matter any way the because the engine will not be running.

 

Excellent point.

 

My light comes on before I ever hit the E.. In fact, I've never even got to the Bar before the E that would actually be "empty". Light comes on way before that, always.

 

Mine too. But they play it safe and give you a good 75km or 50 miles yet once the light comes on.