Pneumatic starters on semi's/articulated trucks

[GTIR]

While I lived in Oz (mostly in Perth, say hi to my ex wife) I did a bit of trucking (did 3 lessons and then a semi test, passed, which lasted 20 mins as the woman wanted to go to lunch! ) and I remember a petrol tanker I parked next to.

I was walking around my truck when the driver of the other vehcile started up, JEEEEZUSSSSS!!!!!! So loud.

I heard they use air starters, is this true?

If so does anyone have a youtube or similair sound clip of said noise?

Thanks.

[928tt]

Air starters for heavy diesel engines, usually used to reduce the electrical load on the vehicle, ie on fuel tankers or vehicles operating in combustable environments. If nothing else there are no sparks created within the starter, at the brushes. We use them at work for any engine or vehicle that operates near oil or gas wells.It can allow a simple diesel engine to operate with no electrical components. Can be a pain if you run out of compressed air before the engine starts, you need to find another vehicle with a compressor to recharge your air tank. Yes they do make a mighty noise but I can't imagine an electric starter taking to the task of starting a 2000 hp V12 diesel!

[funk odyssey]

these are common on older US trucks too

you only get a few shots before you run out of air


then you need another wagon to fill you up again

[Burnedout]

Air Start units were/are fitted to Mack Trucks.
Running out of air is not an issue as in most cases you have at least ten tires pretty handy.
All the Mack drivers I know carry a starter hose for just such emergencies.