Diesel Revolution

Diesel locomotives are large, powerful machines.

They are the backbone of many railways throughout the world. Diesel locomotives are used to haul all sorts of loads including passengers, general freight, grain, minerals and livestock.

Come and see inside a diesel locomotive. Discover how it works and how to drive it as you test your skills as an honorary train driver with the Diesel Cab simulator

Driving a diesel locomotive

Driving a diesel locomotive was not a simple task. It required skill, a thorough knowledge of the track, and above all alertness.

The driver adjusted the throttle to control the power, applied the brakes and controlled the train's direction. He had to read the conditions, observe the track ahead and listen to the engine's exhaust sound to keep the train running smoothly and safely.

A second crew member worked with the driver (he was known as the fireman from the steam era when the second crew member looked after the fire for the boiler.) The fireman watched the track and checked the locomotive's control gauges. A guard also worked on diesel trains until the 1980s. He was stationed in the guard's van at the end of the train. The guard was in charge, signalling when it was safe to go.

The driver's compartment was called the cab. It was cold in winter, but fans kept the crew cool in summer. The only comforts were an electric hotplate, a drinking water tank and a small hand basin. Despite this, crews still found diesel locos more comfortable to work on than steam locomotives.