The early VW Transporters came with a nice sawed off German broom stick for checking your fuel level.
(The tank was sited directly, & excitingly, over the engine.)
On the "Flaming Ford" diesel tractor that I sometimes drive at work I carry a small tree branch to check the fuel. The tractor has a gauge, but it hasn't worked in anyone's memory. The fuel cap is right in front of your face - along with the massive battery. My wife still has a message I left on her cell phone from the day that the whole works went up in flames on me due to a battery fire. (ever try to get off of a big old Ford tractor in a hurry ? In those old days the safety devices consisted of a steering wheel, and brakes - sort of.) The fire damage only added to its handsome patina.
Stig
