Black & Decker VEC1086BBD Instruction Manual

6 AMP SMART™BATTERY CHARGER

INSTRUCTION MANUAL

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Catalog Number VEC1086BBD

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SAVE THIS MANUAL FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.

Cat. # VEC1086BBD Form # 90515397
FEBRUARY ‘07 Copyright © 2007 Black & Decker Printed in China

VEC1086BBD_ManualEN_030207 3/2/07 11:45 AM Page i

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GENERAL SAFETY WARNINGS AND INSTRUCTIONS FOR ALL APPLIANCES

READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS

WARNING: Read all instructions before operating product. Failure to follow all instructions listed below may

result in electric shock, fire and/or serious injury.

• AVOID DANGEROUS ENVIRONMENTS Don’t use appliances in damp or wet locations. Don’t use appliances in the rain.

• KEEP CHILDREN AWAY. All visitors should be kept at a distance from work area.

• STORE IDLE APPLIANCES INDOORS. When not in use, appliances should be stored indoors in dry, and high or
locked-up place – out of reach of children.

• DON’T FORCE APPLIANCE. It will do the job better and with less likelihood of a risk of injury at the rate for which
it was designed.

• USE RIGHT APPLIANCE. Do not use the appliance for any job except that for which it is intended.

• DRESS PROPERLY. Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry. They can be caught in moving parts. Rubber gloves
and substantial, non-skid footwear are recommended when working outdoors. Wear protective hair covering to
contain long hair.

• USE SAFETY GLASSES AND OTHER SAFETY EQUIPMENT. Use safety goggles or safety glasses with side shields,
complying with applicable safety standards and, when needed, a face shield. Also use face or dust mask if operation
is dusty. This applies to all persons in the work area. Also use a hard hat, hearing protection, gloves, safety shoes
and dust collection systems when specified or required. Safety glasses or the like are available at extra cost at your
local dealer or Black & Decker Service Center.

• DON’T ABUSE CORD. Never carry appliance by cord or yank it to disconnect from receptacle. Keep cord from
heat, oil, and sharp edges.

• DON’T OVERREACH. Keep proper footing and balance at all times.

• DISCONNECT APPLIANCES. Disconnect the appliance from the power supply when not in use, before servicing,
and when changing accessories such as blades and the like.

• AVOID UNINTENTIONAL STARTING. Don’t carry plugged-in appliance with finger on switch. Be sure switch is off
when plugging in.

• GROUND FAULT CIRCUIT INTERRUPTER (GFCI) protection should be provided on the circuits or outlets to be used.
Receptacles are available having built in GFCI protection and may be used for this measure of safety.

• USE OF ACCESSORIES AND ATTACHMENTS. The use of any accessory or attachment not recommended for use
with this appliance could be hazardous. Note: Refer to the accessory section of this manual for further details.

• STAY ALERT. Watch what you are doing. Use common sense. Do not operate tool when you are tired.

• CHECK DAMAGED PARTS. Before further use of the tool, a guard or other part that is damaged should be carefully
checked to determine that it will operate properly and perform its intended function. Check for alignment of moving
parts, binding of moving parts, breakage of parts, mounting, and any other conditions that may affect its operation. A
guard or other part that is damaged should be properly repaired or replaced by an authorized service center unless
otherwise indicated elsewhere in this instruction manual. Have defective switches replaced by authorized service center.
Do not use tool if switch does not turn it on and off.

• DO NOT OPERATE portable electric tools near flammable liquids or in gaseous or explosive atmospheres. Motors
in these tools normally spark, and the sparks might ignite fumes.

• OUTDOOR USE EXTENSION CORDS. When tool is used outdoors, use only extension cords intended for use
outdoors and so marked.

Minimum Gage for Cord Sets

Volts Total Length of Cord in Feet

120V 0-25 26-50 51-100 101-150

(0-7,6m) (7,6-15,2m) (15,2-30,4m) (30,4-45,7m)

240V 0-50 51-100 101-200 201-300

(0-15,2m) (15,2-30,4m) (30,4-60,9m) (60,9-91,4m)

Ampere Rating

More Not more American Wire Gage
Than Than
0 - 6 18 16 16 14
6 -10181614 12
10 -12161614 12
12 - 16 14 12 Not Recommended

VEC1086BBD_ManualEN_030207 3/2/07 11:45 AM Page 1

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• EXTENSION CORDS. Make sure your extension cord is in good condition. When using an extension cord, be sure to
use one heavy enough to carry the current your product will draw. An undersized cord will cause a drop in line voltage
resulting in loss of power and overheating. The following table shows the correct size to use depending on cord length
and nameplate ampere rating. If in doubt, use the next heavier gage. The smaller the gage number, the heavier the cord.

SAFETY GUIDELINES / DEFINITIONS

DANGER: Indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
WARNING: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
CAUTION: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury.

CAUTION: Used without the safety alert symbol indicates potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may

result in property damage.
RISK OF UNSAFE OPERATION. When using tools or equipment, basic safety precautions should always be

followed to reduce the risk of personal injury. Improper operation, maintenance or modification of tools or
equipment could result in serious injury and property damage. There are certain applications for which tools
and equipment are designed. Black & Decker strongly recommends that this product NOT be modified and/or
used for any application other than for which it was designed. Read and understand all warnings and operating
instructions before using any tool or equipment.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

THIS MANUAL CONTAINS IMPORTANT SAFETY AND OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE 6 AMP SMART

™

BATTERY CHARGER MODEL VEC1086BBD.

WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF INJURY:

• Follow these instructions and those published by the battery manufacturer and manufacturer of any equipment you
intend to use with this unit. Review cautionary markings on these products and on engine.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

WARNING: This product or its power cord contains lead, a chemical known to the State of California to cause

cancer and birth defect or other reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.

WARNING: BURST HAZARD: Do not use the unit for charging dry-cell batteries that are commonly used with

home appliances. These batteries may burst and cause injury to persons and damage property. Use the unit for
charging/boosting a LEAD-ACID battery only. It is not intended to supply power to a low-voltage electrical system
other than in a starter-motor application.

WARNING: SHOCK HAZARD:

• If an extension cord is used, make sure that:
a) the pins of extension cord are the same number, size and shape as those in the power station,
b) the extension cord is properly wired and in good electrical condition,
c) the wire size is large enough for the AC rating of the charger as indicated in the table on page 1.

• Do not operate unit with damaged cord or plug; or if the unit has received a sharp blow, been dropped, or otherwise
damaged in any way. Do not disassemble the unit; take it to a qualified service technician when service or repair is
required. Incorrect reassembly may result in a risk of electric shock or fire, and will void warranty.

• Use of an attachment not supplied, recommended or sold by manufacturer specifically for use with this unit may
result in a risk of electrical shock and injury to persons.

• NEVER submerge this unit in water; do not expose it to rain, snow or use when wet.

• To reduce risk of electric shock, disconnect the unit from any power source before attempting maintenance or
cleaning. Turning off controls without disconnecting will not reduce this risk.

WARNING: RISK OF EXPLOSIVE GASES

• Working in the vicinity of a lead acid battery is dangerous. Batteries generate explosive gases during normal battery
operation. For this reason, it is of the utmost importance that each time before using the power station you read this
manual and follow instructions exactly.

• To reduce the risk of battery explosion, follow these instructions and those published by the battery manufacturer
and manufacturer of any equipment you intend to use in the vicinity of the battery. Review cautionary markings on
these products and on the engine.

• This equipment employs parts (switches, relays, etc.) that produce arcs or sparks. Therefore, if used in a garage or
enclosed area, the unit MUST be placed not less than 18 inches above the floor.

VEC1086BBD_ManualEN_030207 3/2/07 11:45 AM Page 2

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• THIS UNIT IS NOT FOR USE BY CHILDREN AND SHOULD ONLY BE OPERATED BY ADULTS.

CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF INJURY OR PROPERTY DAMAGE:

• Pull cord by plug rather than cord when disconnecting the 120V AC Charging Adapter from the unit.

• NEVER ATTEMPT TO JUMP-START OR CHARGE A FROZEN BATTERY.

• To recharge this unit, use only the supplied AC Charging Adapter.

• Vehicles that have on-board computerized systems may be damaged if vehicle battery is jump-started. Before
jump-starting, read the vehicle’s owner’s manual to confirm that external-starting assistance is suitable.

• When working with lead acid batteries, always make sure immediate assistance is available in case of
accident or emergency.

• Always have protective eyewear when using this product: contact with battery acid may cause blindness
and/or severe burns. Be aware of first aid procedures in case of accidental contact with battery acid.

• Have plenty of fresh water and soap nearby in case battery acid contacts skin.

• If battery acid contacts skin or clothing, wash immediately with soap and water for at least 10 minutes and
get medical attention immediately.

• Never smoke or allow a spark or flame in vicinity of vehicle battery, engine or battery charger.

• Remove personal metal items such as rings, bracelets, necklaces and watches when working with a lead acid
battery. A lead acid battery can produce a short circuit current high enough to weld a ring, or the like of a
metal, causing a severe burn.

• Never allow battery acid to come in contact with this unit.

• Do not operate this unit in a closed area or restrict ventilation in any way.

•

FIRST AID – SKIN:

If battery acid comes in contact with skin, rinse immediately with water, then wash

thoroughly with soap and water. If redness, pain, or irritation occurs, seek immediate medical attention.

EYES:

If battery acid comes in contact with eyes, flush eyes immediately, for a minimum of 15 minutes and

seek immediate medical attention.

Power Cord Safety:

This appliance has a polarized plug (one blade is wider than the other) as a safety feature. This plug will fit into
a polarized outlet only one way. If the plug does not fit fully into the outlet, reverse the plug. If it still does not
fit, contact a qualified electrician. Do not attempt to defeat this safety feature.

Preparing to Charge

1. Determine voltage of battery to be charged by referring to the vehicle manual.

2. it is necessary to remove battery from vehicle to charge, or to clean terminals, always remove grounded

terminal from battery first. Make sure all accessories in the vehicle are off, so as not to cause an arc.

3. Clean battery terminals. Do not allow corrosion to come in contact with eyes.

4. Add distilled water in each cell until battery acid reaches level specified by battery manufacturer. This helps
purge excessive gas from cells. Do not overfill. For a battery without cell caps (maintenance free), carefully
follow manufacturer's charging instructions.

5. Study all battery manufacturer’s specific precautions, such as removing or not removing cell caps while
charging, and recommended rates of charge.

6. Area around battery should be well ventilated while battery is being charged. Gas can be forcefully blown
away by using a piece of cardboard or other nonmetallic material as a fan.

7. Make sure the initial charging rate does not exceed battery manufacturer’s requirement.

Charger Location

1. Locate charger as far away from battery as cables permit.

2. NEVER place charger directly above battery being charged; gases from battery will corrode and damage charger.

3. NEVER allow battery acid to drip on charger when reading gravity or filling battery.

4. NEVER operate charger in a closed-in area or restrict ventilation in any way.

5. Marine batteries must be removed and charged on shore.

6. Do not set a battery on top of charger.

DC Connection Precautions

1. Connect and disconnect DC output clamps only after removing AC cord from electric outlet.

2. Never allow clamps to touch each other.

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3. Attach clamps to battery chassis as indicated in “Battery Installed in Vehicle” steps 5 and 6, and in “Battery
Outside of Vehicle” steps 2, 4 and 5.

Follow these steps when the battery is installed in a vehicle. A spark near the battery may cause an explosion.

WARNING: TO REDUCE RISK OF A SPARK NEAR THE BATTERY:

1. Position AC and DC cords away from hood, door, or moving engine parts.

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

3. Check polarity of battery posts. POSITIVE (POS, P, +) battery post usually has larger diameter than
NEGATIVE (NEG, N, –) post.

4. Determine which post of battery is grounded (connected) to the chassis. If negative post is grounded to
chassis (as in most vehicles), see 5. If positive post is grounded to the chassis, see 6.

5. For negative-grounded vehicle, connect POSITIVE (RED) clamp from battery charger to POSITIVE (POS, P,
+) ungrounded post of battery. Connect NEGATIVE (BLACK) clamp to vehicle chassis or engine block away
from battery. Do not connect clip to carburetor, fuel lines, or sheet-metal body parts. Connect to heavy gauge
metal part of the frame or engine block.

6. For positive-grounded vehicle, connect NEGATIVE (BLACK) clamp from battery charger to NEGATIVE (NEG,
N, –) ungrounded post of battery. Connect POSITIVE (RED) clamp to vehicle chassis or engine block away
from battery. Do not connect clip to carburetor, fuel lines or sheet-metal body parts. Connect to a heavy gauge
metal part of the frame or engine block.

7. When disconnecting charger, disconnect AC cord, remove clamp from vehicle chassis, and then remove
clamp from battery terminal.

8. Do not charge the battery while the engine is operating.

9. See operating instructions for length of charge information.
Follow these steps when the battery has been removed from a vehicle. A spark near the battery may cause an explosion.

WARNING: TO REDUCE RISK OF A SPARK NEAR THE BATTERY:

1. Check polarity of battery posts. Positive post (marked POS,P, +) usually has a larger diameter than the
Negative battery post (marked NEG, N, –).

2. Attach a 24-inch (minimum length) 6 AWG insulated battery cable to the Negative battery post (marked
NEG, N, –).

3. Connect the Positive (RED) battery clamp to the Positive battery post (marked POS, P, + or red).

4. Stand as far back from the battery as possible, and do not face battery when making final connection.

5. Carefully connect the NEGATIVE (BLACK) charger clamp to the free end of the battery cable connected to
the negative terminal.

6. Set the charge rate to appropriate setting according to battery size.

7. When disconnecting charger, always do so in reverse sequence of connecting procedure and break first
connection while as far away from battery as practical.

Note:

A marine (boat) battery must be removed and charged on shore. To charge it on board requires

equipment specially designed for marine use. This unit is NOT designed for such use.

• Check unit periodically for wear and tear. Take to a qualified technician for replacement of worn or defective
parts immediately.

• Read This Instruction Manual Before Using This Unit.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

INTRODUCTION

Thank you for selecting the

Black & Decker®6 Amp Smart™ Battery Charger

. With proper care and use,
it will give you years of dependable service. This battery charger has a high charge rate of up to 6 amps, and
low charge rate of 2 amps. It is designed for charging only 12-volt lead-acid batteries — conventional
automotive, maintenance-free, marine deep cycle and gel — used in cars, farm equipment, boats, RVs and
SUVs, lawn mowers/garden tractors, motorcycles, personal watercraft, snowmobiles, ATVs and various
applications.

Smart™ Battery Chargers feature 3-stage, high-efficiency charging technology, built-in microprocessor control
that ensures fast, safe and complete charging of serviceable batteries.

VEC1086BBD_ManualEN_030207 3/2/07 11:45 AM Page 4

Charge Curve

Stage One —

Rapid Start Charge at 6 amps delivers maximum charging amperage to “wake up” any
serviceable 12 volt battery and allows for quick engine starting in just 8 minutes (based on a midsize vehicle
battery at 50% charge level). When battery reaches a maximum safe predetermined voltage, the charger will
automatically signal a "beep" and move into Stage 2 of the charging process.

Stage Two —

Absorption Charge maintains the maximum possible charge at a constant, safe, predetermined
voltage. During the phase, voltage absorption regulation charge, the charging voltage remains constant, while
the actual charging current is reduced to allow for the maximum proper internal chemical energy transfer. At
the end of Stage 2, the charger will automatically move into Stage 3 charge mode.

Stage Three —

Top-Off Charge voltage is automatically maintained and reduced to a predetermined level
while current is adjusted for a safe, effective battery charge. At the conclusion of Stage 3, the unit will BEEP
signaling the completion of the charging cycle.

The Automatic Float Charge feature is ideal for maintaining a battery. It automatically “tops off” a battery as
needed, to keep it fully charged all the time.

FEA

TURES

• This unit has three charge rate settings, accessed by the Charge Rate Selector 2A/4A/6A button:
a) 2 amps: smaller batteries, as in lawn mowers, snowmobiles, motorcycles, etc.
b) 4 amps: mid-sized batteries, as in small cars
c) 6 amps: automobile batteries and light trucks

• Automatic float charge monitoring

• Microprocessor-controlled for proper operation and for fault detection

• Charge rate LEDs

• High-frequency, switch-mode operation for pure DC output

• Rapid charging three-stage output

• Heavy-duty cables and clamps are corrosion-resistant

• Connect to side or top-mount battery terminals

• Rugged case, plus sturdy carry handle

• Self-storage of cables and clamps

• Ideal during winter season when vehicle's starting performance is reduced by cold or extreme weather conditions

• Single beep tone indicates a button is pressed or a mode change occurs

Controls and Indicators

The Charge Rate Selector 2A/4A/6A button allows the user to select the charger rate based on battery size. This
selection and actual battery charge rate are monitored by the microprocessor and the unit will stop charging if
the rate is too fast or too slow for battery size or condition.

Below the Charge Rate LEDs are a series of four LEDs that light on the following conditions:

Power —

Lights when unit is connected to a 120 volt AC

electric outlet.

Full —

Lights when charging is complete.

Fault —

Lights when the battery is not connected properly or

not chargeable.

Rev. (Reverse Polarity) —

Lights when clamps are

incorrectly connected to battery terminals.

CHARGE RATE SELECTOR BUTTON

BEEP

BEEP

OFF BEEP

STAGE THREE

CHARGING COMPLETE

STAGE ONE

STAGE TWO

5

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