Automatic start/stop system and method for locomotive engines

An engine control system for a locomotive, the control system comprising:

• a memory device for storing computer instructions;
• a computer processor for executing the computer instructions stored in the memory device, the computer instructions configuring the computer processor to output one or more commands when one or more predefined conditions exist;
• and
• engine control hardware for controlling the locomotive—engine in response to commands output by the computer processor;
• the computer processor including an input for receiving a signal indicative of whether an automatic engine stop system is enabled;
• the computer instructions configuring the computer processor to normally output an engine shutdown command when the automatic engine stop system is enabled and a set of automatic engine shutdown parameters are satisfied;
• the computer processor including an input for receiving an inhibit command from an operator of the locomotive;
• the computer instructions further configuring the computer processor to at least delay outputting the engine shutdown command in response to the inhibit command.