Locomotive Battery Chargers & Jump Starters for Diesel Rail Engines
A locomotive that will not start means delayed freight, disrupted schedules, and blocked track. START PAC® designs and manufactures a dedicated range of locomotive battery chargers and jump starters built specifically for diesel rail engines, from short-line switchers to 6000HP mainline locomotives. American-made since 1997, the START PAC® RR-series is purpose-engineered for the demands of railroad operations: reliable starting in any conditions, multiple starts per charge, and the rugged construction that rail environments demand.
START PAC® locomotive starting units are available in 24V configurations and are rated to start diesel engines up to 6000HP — covering the full range of North American diesel-electric locomotive types. The RR-series is designed exclusively for rail applications, with multiple-start capability per charge and robust construction built for trackside and yard use. Call 844.901.9987 or browse the full RR-series range below.
The Power Challenges Locomotive Operators Face
Diesel locomotive starting places demands on ground power equipment that no general-purpose jump starter is built to meet. The operational environment adds further pressure.
- Massive engine displacement — North American diesel-electric locomotives run engines displacing 3,000 to over 7,000 cubic inches. Cranking these engines to ignition requires enormously higher current than any road vehicle application.
- Multiple starts per shift — Yard switchers and short-line locomotives may need to start repeatedly throughout the day. A starting unit that can only deliver one or two starts before needing recharge is a liability, not an asset.
- Remote yard and trackside locations — Locomotives often stall or sit in yards, sidings, and remote track sections far from fixed power infrastructure. Starting equipment must operate independently without AC power or another running locomotive alongside.
- Cold weather degradation — In northern climates and high-altitude rail corridors, battery capacity drops sharply in winter. A starting unit that performs in summer may fail to crank a cold-soaked diesel at -20°C.
- Battery preservation and maintenance — Locomotive batteries are large, expensive, and difficult to replace in the field. Repeated deep-discharge starting from the locomotive’s own batteries accelerates wear and shortens service life significantly.
- Delayed trains have cascading costs — A locomotive that will not start does not just affect one train. It blocks track, disrupts schedules downstream, and triggers penalties. The cost of one delay dwarfs the cost of reliable starting equipment.
Why Railroad Operators Choose START PAC®
START PAC® has been manufacturing specialized locomotive starting equipment in Las Vegas, Nevada since 1997. The RR-series product line was developed specifically for the rail industry and is engineered to the demands of diesel-electric locomotive operations.
- Purpose-built RR-series — Every model in the locomotive range is designed exclusively for rail applications, not adapted from an aviation or automotive product. The connector configurations, output ratings, and battery capacities are matched to diesel locomotive electrical systems.
- 6000HP starting capability — The START PAC® locomotive range is rated to start diesel engines up to 6000 horsepower, covering switchers, road-switchers, and mainline units across North American Class I, regional, and short-line railroads.
- Multiple starts per charge — RR-series units are built to perform repeated starts on a single charge, meeting the demanding cycle requirements of yard operations and multi-locomotive consists.
- Fully portable and independent — Units operate entirely from their onboard battery pack. No AC power, no shore connection, and no second locomotive required. One operator can address a stalled unit anywhere on the property.
- Battery preservation — Using a START PAC® unit for every start bypasses the locomotive’s own batteries, extending their service life and reducing unscheduled maintenance.
- Built for trackside conditions — Heavy-duty powder-coated construction, quality components, and ISO 9001 certified manufacturing mean these units withstand the dust, vibration, temperature, and weather exposure of railroad yard environments.
- Sold in 50+ countries — The RR-series is trusted by railroad operators globally, including freight, passenger, commuter, industrial, and mining rail applications.
Who Uses START PAC® Locomotive Starting Equipment
START PAC® RR-series starting units are used across the full range of North American and international railroad operations:
- Class I freight railroads managing large fleets of mainline diesel-electric locomotives across long-haul routes.
- Short-line and regional railroads that need reliable, cost-effective starting solutions for smaller fleets operating with lean maintenance resources.
- Yard and switching operations where locomotives start repeatedly throughout the day and battery reliability is critical.
- Commuter and passenger rail operators requiring dependable starting equipment to maintain schedule adherence.
- Industrial and plant railroads operating diesel switchers in mining, steel, port, and manufacturing facility rail networks.
- Railroad maintenance departments and MRO teams responsible for keeping locomotive fleets operational and minimizing unscheduled downtime.
- International railroad operators served through START PAC’s global dealer network across 50+ countries.
Benefits of Our Locomotive Power Supply Services
Our locomotive power supply services can benefit you with several advantages in transforming your operations. Our energy-efficient systems cut back on operational costs and are deemed more sustainable – a critical factor in today’s eco-friendly climate demands. Utilize the fine loco battery chargers for assured battery extension and get your locomotives powered and ready for action, too. More importantly, our committed customer support service delivers exceptional service throughout the process – from initial consultation through installation and regular maintenance.
Key Benefits:
Cost Savings: Energy-saving technologies reduce operation costs.
Sustainability Focus: Environment-friendly solutions result in a greener tomorrow.
Expert Support: Full support from consultation to servicing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Horsepower Diesel Locomotive Engines Can Start Pac® Units Start?
The START PAC® RR-series locomotive starting range is rated to start diesel engines up to 6000 horsepower, covering the full range of North American diesel-electric locomotive types — from small industrial switchers to large mainline freight units. For specific locomotive makes, models, and engine configurations, contact the START PAC® team with your application details and they will confirm the correct unit.
How Many Starts Can An Rr-Series Unit Perform On A Single Charge?
START PAC® RR-series units are designed for multiple starts per charge, making them suitable for yard and switching operations where locomotives may need to start repeatedly throughout a shift. The exact number of starts per charge depends on the model and the engine being started. The Model 214RR is specifically designed for repeated jump starting in high-cycle yard environments. Contact START PAC® for guidance on which model best matches your daily start requirements.
Do Start Pac® Locomotive Starters Work Without Ac Power Or A Second Locomotive?
Yes. All START PAC® RR-series units operate entirely from their onboard battery pack, with no need for shore power, an AC outlet, or a second running locomotive positioned alongside. This is one of the primary advantages for trackside and remote yard use — one operator with a START PAC® unit can start a stalled locomotive anywhere on the property, independently.
What Is The Difference Between The 2400rr, 3324rr, 3370rr, And 214rr?
The 2400RR is a portable 24V starting unit suitable for a wide range of diesel locomotive types. The 3324RR adds battery charging capability alongside starting power, making it suitable for both starting and battery maintenance. The 3370RR is the heavy-duty model for the highest-horsepower mainline applications. The 214RR is optimized for repeated jump starting in high-cycle yard and switching environments. The START PAC® team can help match the right model to your specific fleet and daily operation profile.
Will Using A Start Pac® Unit Protect My Locomotive Batteries?
Yes. Using an external starting unit for every engine start means the locomotive’s own batteries are bypassed during the high-current cranking phase, which is the most damaging part of the discharge cycle. This significantly reduces battery wear and extends service life. Locomotive batteries are large and expensive — consistently using a START PAC® RR-series unit for starting is one of the most cost-effective maintenance practices available to a railroad operator.
Can Start Pac® Units Be Used In Cold Weather And Harsh Outdoor Conditions?
Yes. START PAC® RR-series units are built for outdoor trackside and yard use in all weather conditions. The heavy-duty powder-coated construction provides protection against moisture, dust, and temperature cycling. For operations in consistently cold climates — northern rail corridors, high-altitude lines, or winter yard conditions — the START PAC® team recommends discussing your specific environment when selecting a model to ensure optimal cold-weather performance.
Does Start Pac® Offer Locomotive Starting Solutions For International Railroad Operators?
Yes. START PAC® sells its products in over 50 countries and has an established international dealer network serving railroad operators globally. The RR-series is used across freight, passenger, commuter, industrial, and mining rail applications worldwide. For international orders, dealer inquiries, or custom configurations for non-North American locomotive types, contact START PAC® directly or visit startpac.com/dealer-networks.
What Warranty Does Start Pac® Offer On Locomotive Starting Units?
All START PAC® products include a 1-year warranty on workmanship and materials. The company also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee — if you are not satisfied for any reason, return the unit in new condition within 30 days for a full refund. The START PAC® team is available by phone at 844.901.9987 or 702.982.7089 during business hours for technical support, product selection guidance, and after-sale service.
The newest and safest technology available.
All START PAC® products come with a
1-year warranty on workmanship
and materials
Please handle this unit in a responsible manner. START PAC® is not responsible for damages caused by misuse or neglect.
