I'd consider Diesel fuel if you can't find Kerosene. Jon is correct, kerosene is expensive. I'd recommend draining it as you've proposed. Partially fill with Diesel or Kerosene and run it in low or second at idle for a minute, drain it and then remove the cover and inspect it. I assume you'll lift it up and put it on jack stands, so the "run it for a minute will be a no load condition. Good luck.
