Depends on the type of locomotive traction generator - DC or AC.
DC (older) locomotives are cranked by dumping battery power to the main generator. The generator becomes a motor which spins up the diesel engine.
Newer AC locomotives require a separate geared electric or pneumatic starter. This is because the traction generator (actually an AC alternator) cannot be motored on battery current. Two starters are are generally used to achieve the crankshaft RPM required for reliable cold starting.
AFIK no starting aids (glow plugs, manifold heaters, etc) are required on mainline diesel locomotives.
Incidentally the sound of a pneumatic-start locomotive getting cranking up is one you are not likely to forget!
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Today's Featured Article - Hydraulic Basics - Part 2 - by Curtis Von Fange. In the last entry to this series we gave a brief overview of hydraulic system theory, its basic components and how it works. Now lets take a look at some general maintenance tips that will keep our system operating to its fullest potential. The two biggest enemies to a hydraulic system are dirt and water. Dirt can score the insides of cylinders, spool valves and pumps. Wate
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