A fluid-powered auxiliary starting system for electric motors is disclosed which includes an accumulator means for supplying an amount of fluid at high pressure to a fluid-operated motor and a clutch of similar device for connecting the output shaft of the fluid-operated motor to transfer rotational torque to the shaft of the prime mover motor to be started. The system may be either hydraulic or pneumatic and may be used to bring one or more electric motors substantially up to spaced before electric power is applied to the motors themselves. The same motor or a hydraulic or pneumatic pump may be used to recharge the accumulator between uses for electric motor starting.