Schumacher PS-1025, PS-620 Operating Instructions Charging Battery in Vehicle, Circuit Breaker

G. CIRCUIT BREAKER

This battery charger is equipped with a self-resetting circuit breaker. This device protects the charger from temporary over- loads. In the event of an overload, the circuit breaker will trip open. After a short cooling off period, it will reset automatically. This process is known as cycling and can be recognized by an audible clicking sound.

NOTE: Clicking sound is normal. Wait until charger automati- cally resets itself.

CAUTION: Persistent clicking (more than 30 minutes) may indi- cate reverse connection or shorted battery cells. (See TROUBLE SHOOTING.)

H. BATTERY TYPES

Three basic types of lead-acid batteries can be given a charge with this charger: (1) Conventional and Low Maintenance, (2) Mainte- nance-Free, (3) Deep-Cycle.

Conventional and Low Maintenance Batteries. These are the antimony/lead batteries. Conventional/low maintenance batter- ies require periodic addition of water to the acid solution (elec- trolyte). Additional water may be added by removing the filler caps located on the top of the battery.

When antimony is known to be one of the materials used in the battery's construction, that battery is a low maintenance/conven- tional type.

CAUTION: Some low maintenance batteries have a relatively smooth top without any apparent battery filler caps. If, however, the battery manufacturer/distributor recommends periodic check-

ing of electrolyte level and provides access to the battery for water additions, the battery is probably a low maintenance/con- ventional type.

Maintenance-free Batteries. These are calcium/lead batteries and normally do not require water additions. Therefore, filler caps have been removed from the battery surface. These batteries will have a smooth or sealed appearance.

Deep-cycle Batteries. These heavy-duty batteries are used in boats, construction equipment, sump pumps, etc. They are nor- mally marked Deep-cycle on the outside of the case.

I.OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS: CHARGING BATTERY IN VEHICLE

When charging battery in the vehicle, take care to determine the battery type and which post is grounded. To reduce risk of a spark near battery, follow these steps when battery is installed in vehicle. WARNING: A spark near battery may cause battery explosion.

With the PS-620 charger in the OFF position or the PS-1025 charger in 2 Amp position:

1.Position AC power cord and DC charging cords to reduce risk of damage by hood, door, or moving engine parts.

2.Stay clear of fan blades, belts, pulleys, and other parts that can cause injury.

3.Check polarity of battery posts. Battery case will be marked by each post: POSITIVE (POS, P, +) and NEGATIVE (NEG, N, -). NOTE: The positive battery post usually has a larger diameter than the negative post.

4.Determine which post of battery is ground (connected to chassis).

NOTE: The negative post is normally grounded.

NEGATIVE GROUNDED POST

5A. For negative-grounded vehicle, connect POSITIVE (RED) clamp from battery charger to POSITIVE (POS, P, +) un- grounded post of battery. Connect NEGATIVE (BLACK) clamp to vehicle chassis or engine block, away from bat- tery. Connect to a heavy gauge unpainted metal part of the frame or engine block.

WARNING: Do not connect clamp to carburetor, fuel lines, or

sheet-metal body parts. NOTE: Attach clamps to battery post and twist or rock back and forth several times to make a good connection. This tends to keep clamps from slipping off termi- nals and helps to reduce risk of sparking. FIGURE 6 shows con- nections for a negative-grounded battery.

FIGURE 6: CONNECTION TO NEGATIVE

GROUNDED BATTERY

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