Note below a comparison of the physical properties of diethyl ether (currently used in most model diesel fuel formulas) and petroleum ether (also known as VM&P naphtha and available at paint stores. VM&P stands for Varnish Makers & Painters):

ether ***** VM&P
Specific gravity .71 ***** .60-.75
Melting point -116C ***** -73C
Boiling point 34.6C ***** 20-75C
Vapour pressure 400mmHg@18C ****** 40mmHg@20C
Flash point -40C ***** -18C
Autoignition 170C * **** 288C

I believe the above data is for Type III VM&P Naphtha. The autoignition temperatures are not that far off. Diethyl ether is derived from ethyl alcohol. Petroleum ether is a petroleum distillate. Anyone ever try the VM&P?

Coleman Fuel is a light petroleum Naphtha containing no lead compounds. It has rust inhibitors added. The flash point is -30C