Schumacher PST-1000 Amps Display, AMP Probe Lead and Zero Knob, DIODE/STATOR Lamp, LOAD-ON Lamp

EXTERNAL VOLTS LEADS (1 mg ohms)

These leads may be used for measuring any DC voltage on a vehicle when the test selector switch is placed in External posi- tion. The voltmeter circuit is isolated and has an automatic polar- ity indication. Typical applications are for measuring load volt- ages and cable connection voltage drops.

AMPS DISPLAY

The display shows the amperage sensed by the Amp Probe. The readout is in 1 amp steps and has a working range up to ±1999 Amps.

AMP PROBE LEAD AND ZERO KNOB

The inductive Amp Probe senses current in a wire without having to disturb any connections. Place the wire through the opening and check that the probe jaws close fully. The + - sign on the probe indicates the direction of conventional currents, which will give a positive display reading. Reversed currents will show a minus sign. For example, if the probe is on a negative ground alternator output wire with the + sign towards the alternator, the reading will be positive. Switch to 1000A position and use the zero auto adjust knob (on probe top) to cancel offset before probe hookup.

Note: The probe works by sensing magnetism around a wire. To avoid errors keep it away from the back of the alternator and other strong magnets. Probe uses a 9 volt battery inside of the back.

DIODE/STATOR LAMP

This lamp will be on steady when there is alternator output of at least 20 amps and excessive “ripple” is detected in the battery cable. Ignore momentary flashes. Alternator output with ripple current are usually caused by a bad diode or stator winding.

LOAD CONTROL KNOB

This load is suitable for 6 to 24 volt automotive battery systems. The Load control knob is used to adjust the battery test current. The load is a carbon pile capable of drawing 1000 Amps. Draws of over 100 amps must be limited to 15 seconds with a minimum of 60 seconds off between tests to avoid heat buildup. The fan will come on when the test load reaches 50 amps and will remain on until the temperature drops below 60°C. If the fan air feels warm, allow it to run after testing to reduce the damaging effects of high temperatures.

AVOID DANGEROUS SPARKS

Always turn the Load Knob “OFF” before connecting or mov- ing the battery clamps.

LOAD-ON LAMP

When the lamp is lighted, the carbon pile is drawing at last 50 amps from the battery and it is a reminder to turn off the load when the test is complete or before changing battery connec- tions.

Note: The Load-On lamp will not be bright enough to see during 6V battery tests.

TIMER BEEPER AND TIME OUT LAMP

When the Load-On lamp begins lighting, an internal timer waits 15 seconds and then begins sounding an audible beep and the “Time-Out” lamp illuminates. Both are reminders to turn off the load before removing or moving the battery cable clamps from the battery.

ANALYZER HOOK UP

All of the test procedures of a vehicle’s equipment presume that

the battery will perform well enough. The battery test should always be completed before performing other diagnostic tests.

General specifications given in this manual are for 6–12 volts systems and give satisfactory performance references for most vehicles. However, there are some vehicles which will require the actual vehicle manufacturer’s service specification values for more accurate test conclusions.

When hooking up the analyzer, always do the following steps:

1.Be sure the load knob is turned to OFF before connecting the analyzer cables to the battery. Take note of the safety precautions on the front page of this manual.

2.Connect the analyzer Battery Clamps to the battery terminals; Red to positive (+), Black to negative (-) They may be reversed to get a minus volts reading. The clamp jaw from each cable must have a solid connection to the battery terminal to assure good voltage measurements and to prevent arching during adapter attachment or high current load testing.

3.Set the volts (source) selector to Battery Volts. The analyzer will show the battery voltage. The display will work from ±4.0 to ±16.0 volts so that 6 to 12 volt batteries can be tested.

4.With the Amps Probe jaws closed and not around any wires, switch to the “1000A” position and push the Zero Amps Knob until the Amps Display reads “000”.

NOTE

This manual assumes that Negative Ground battery systems are being tested since Positive Ground batteries exist only on antique or unusual vehicles. This affects the circuit troubleshooting procedures.

BATTERY CAUTION

1.Always wear safety glasses when working around batteries.

2.Do not break live circuits at the battery terminals.

3.Avoid accidentally shorting the insulated battery terminal to any ground metal. Never put a wrench on a live battery terminal. Severe burns may result. Always disconnect the battery chassis ground cable first.

BATTERY TESTING

The battery test has three steps:

I.Visual Inspection

II.State of Charge Check

III. Load Test

A battery must be tested with a load to determine its ability to perform. Specific gravity or open circle voltage tests do not com- pletely gauge a battery’s performance.

Sealed batteries can be tested like open vent batteries except for the specific gravity test.

VISUAL INSPECTION

1.Corroded or damaged cable connectors.

2.Loose or damaged battery posts.

3.Damaged battery cases which allow the loss of electrolyte.

4.The battery fluid must completely cover the cell plates in all cells. If water is added to the battery before specific gravity

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