Code 3 DashLaser User Manual

INSTALLATION & OPERATION MANUAL

MODEL 660

Patent Number 4,931,768

Contents:

MODEL 660

PORTABLE WARNING LIGHT

Introduction (with warnings)................................ 2

Unpacking & Pre-Installation .............................. 2

Installation & Mounting ....................................... 3

Magnetic MountIing ............................................ 3

Roof Mounting ............................................... 4

Interior Mounting........................................... 4

Permanent Mounting .................................... 5

Pole or Stanchion Mounting ......................... 6

Direct Wiring ....................................................... 6

Maintenance ....................................................... 7

Options & Specifications .................................... 7

Parts List (Replacement Parts/Exploded View) . 8

Warnings for Lighting Products ..................... 9-10

Troubleshooting ................................................ 11

Warranty ........................................................... 12

IMPORTANT:

Read all instructions and warnings before installing and using.

INSTALLER:

This manual must be delivered to the end user of this equipment.

Introduction

The Code 3® DashLaser® is a powerful warning device that exceeds all minimum SAE Class 1 standards for 360° warning lights. It is actually brighter than some "full-sized" light bars.

The DashLaser is a rugged unit, designed for long service life in interior or exterior applications. Each unit comes with a snap-on, fast release blinder that is specifically designed for continuous use on the DashLaser without causing damage to the device. A multipurpose mounting system is also standard.

The use of this or any warning device does not insure that all drivers can or will observe or react to an emergency warning signal. Never take the right-of-way for granted. It is

WARNING!

correctly. In use, the vehicle operator should insure the projection of the warning signal is not blocked by vehicle components (i.e.: open trunks or compartment doors), people, vehicles, or other obstructions. This equipment is intended for use by authorized personnel only. It is the user’s responsibility to understand and obey all laws regarding emergency warning devices. The user should check all applicable city, state and federal laws and regulations.

your responsibility to be sure you can proceed safely before entering an intersection, driving against traffic, responding at a high rate of speed, or walking on or around traffic lanes. The effectiveness of this warning device is highly dependent upon correct mounting and wiring. Read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions before installing or using this device. The vehicle operator should insure daily that all features of the device operate

Code 3, Inc.

Proper installation is vital to the performance of this warning device and the safe operation of the emergency vehicle. It is important to recognize that the operator of the emergency vehicle is under psychological and physiological stress caused by the emergency situation. Warning devices should be installed in such a manner as to: A) Not reduce the output performance of the system, B) Place the controls within convenient reach of the operator so that he can operate the system without losing eye contact with the roadway. Strobe power supply and flash tubes utilize high electrical voltages and/or currents. Properly protect and use caution around live electrical connections. Grounding or shorting of electrical connections can cause high current arcing, which can cause personal injury and/or severe vehicle damage, including fire. Incandescent lamps are extremely hot, allow to cool completely before attempting to remove. Any electronic device may create or be affected by electromagnetic interference. After installation of any electronic device operate all equipment simultaneously to insure that operation is free of interference. Never power emergency warning equipment from the same circuit or share the same grounding circuit with radio communication equipment. PROPER INSTALLATION COMBINED WITH OPERATOR TRAINING IN THE PROPER USE OF EMERGENCY WARNING DEVICES IS ESSENTIAL TO INSURE THE SAFETY OF EMERGENCY PERSONNEL AND THE PUBLIC.

, assumes no liability for any loss resulting from the use of this warning device.

Unpacking & Pre-Installation

YOUR DASHLASER COMES WITH THESE ITEMS

(OPTIONAL IN SOME SPECIAL PACKAGES)

Carefully remove the beacon and place it on a flat surface, taking care not to scratch the lens. Examine the unit for transit damage, broken lamps, etc.

TETHER CORD

LENS AND ROTATOR ASSEMBLY

SNAP-ON BLINDER

CORD AND PLUG

FIGURE 1

4 HEX-HEAD SCREWS (one not shown)

4 ACORN NUTS

ADHESIVE PAD

Operation

The DashLaser® is designed to operate on a 12-volt DC system, with a 7-15 amp fuse.

To operate your DashLaser, just plug it into a cigarette lighter, rotate and push with reasonable, moderate force which insures the best possible connec-

tion. It should be very bright and rotating at 90-110 rpm. If it is not, check the troubleshooting guide on page 9 for appropriate

action.

To remove the blinder, pull either side away from the lens dome. The blinder will not release if you pull back on it. To replace, line up the bottom of the blinder with the bottom of the dome and gently push until it snaps into place. The blinder will only fit on the sloped (motor) side of the dome. The additional snap notches are there for accessories.

FIGURE 2

Installation & Mounting

All devices should be mounted in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and se-

WARNING!

lodge the device. Installer must be sure that this device, its mounting hardware and electrical supply wiring does not interfere with the air bag or the SRS wiring or sensors. Front or rear grille/bumper placement must avoid interference with SRS sensors. Mounting the unit inside the vehicle by a method other than permanent installation is not recommended as unit may become dislodged during swerving, sudden braking or collision. Failure to follow instructions can result in personal injury.

curely fastened to vehicle elements of sufficient strength to withstand the forces applied to the

device. Driver and/or passenger air bags (SRS) will affect the way equipment should be

mounted. This device should be mounted by permanent installation and within the zones

specified by the vehicle manufacturer, if any. Any device mounted in the deployment area of an air bag will damage or reduce the effectiveness of the air bag and may damage or dis-

Notice: This device is only useful as an SAE Class 1 warning device when mounted properly.

Magnetic Mounting

1) Rust Stains: The magnetic mount is not intended as a permanent mounting for the

WARNING!

part stores.

vehicle is at the sole discretion and responsibility of the user.

CAUTION: The magnet on the DashLaser is powerful and very reliable except under extremely rough driving conditions, such as off-road and 4x4 use. When such rough conditions are anticipated, the DashLaser should be removed temporarily or permanently mounted.

Random or careless placement in or on the vehicle may not produce a safe in-motion warning signal. There is always great risk in breaking an intersection or driving in the oncoming lane of traffic. A poorly aimed warning light is very likely to lead to an accident.

beacon. Long duration usage of any magnet will expose the high iron content of the steel as rust. The device should be removed when not used to prevent rust stains. Metallic debris

collected by the magnet will also contribute to rust stains. Insure that the magnet is kept clean.

2) Surface rust stains can usually be removed with chrome polish, available at most auto

3) As with any magnetically-mounted warning device, its use on the exterior of a moving

This magnetic mount product provides a secure, temporary installation in most circum stances and is recommended for stationary use only. For maximum warning signal, mount the beacon on the highest possible flat, level surface of the vehicle.

OPEN TRUNK

BLOCKED SIGNAL

To achieve the best signal, the DashLaser must be mounted level and unobstructed. "Blind spots" can be caused by door posts, an open trunk or hood, a passenger, the blinder, or vehicle operator. A full 360° signal can only be achieved when the DashLaser is mounted externally on the vehicle without the blinder.

FIGURE 3

Roof Mounting

1. Park the vehicle on level ground. Use a carpenter's spirit level to be sure.

2. Place your DashLaser®, without the blinder, in the center of the roof.

3. Using a spirit level on the top of the dome, carefully move the device to where it is level (do not slide as it could scratch the paint). This is the best location for maximum warning power. For future convenience, a small dot of tape could be left on the roof to allow rapid accurate placement. Be sure that the magnet is to the front of the vehicle and the slanted (motor) side is to the rear. The standard DashLaser magnet is very reliable, but IS NOT SUITABLE for in-motion use on vinyl or convertible tops.

CORRECT MOUNTING INCORRECT MOUNTING

Interior Mounting

This product is supplied with a tether cord for added user safety. DO NOT use this product

WARNING!

See illustrations on page 4, 5 and 6 for proper installation of the tether cord when mounting inside vehicle.

Your DashLaser comes with a multipurpose mounting kit. For interior use the bracket can be mounted to clean glass or flat painted metal surfaces with the adhesive pad provided. The adhesive bonds quickly and requires the installer to read and understand this section before mounting.

1. Study the various mounting configurations in the illustrations on page 5 and assemble your bracket in the manner you think works best for your application.

2. Wash the window with a non-filming glass cleaner.

3. Place the magnet on the bracket assembly with tether cord as illustrated on page 6 and hold it in the desired position. Use a small

level on the upper surface to square it up.

4. Once it is level and positioned to your liking, use a crayon or laundry marker to indicate the position. Do not mark in the area

where adhesive will be applied.

without the tether cord properly installed.

Using non-factory specified screws and/or mounting brackets and/or the improper number of screws may result in failure of mounting system and severe damage to vehicle as well as loss of warranty coverage on the equipment.

FIGURE 4

CROSS HAIR MARKS

5. Clean the mounting bracket face and let dry. Remove one adhesive pad liner and stick it to the bracket, rubbing down hard.

6. Remove the second liner from the pad. With the DashLaser off of the bracket, and placing your level horizontally on the bracket to keep it squared up right to left, press the bracket onto the window in the pre-marked position. Press firmly to assure good adhesion

- you can look from the outside of a window to see if the surface is making good contact with no bubbles. Never attempt to make an adhesive bond when the surface or air temperature is below 50°F. It will not hold. Once a good bond is made, it is not sensitive to temperatures from -20° to +180°F. We do not recommend mounting to plastic dashboards with the adhesive pad since it will not form an adequate bond with some plastics. Two additional screws are included for attaching the bracket to surfaces where the selfadhesive pad cannot be used. See page 5 for "Permanent Mounting".

7. Once unit is attached, locate a place on or under the dash that is sheet metal for mounting the tether cord. Hold the free end of the cord in position and make sure the Dashlaser cannot reach the passenger or driver. Then attach tether cord to this section of sheet metal (not to plastic or rubber) as shown in figure 7.

LEVEL

FIGURE 5

MOUNTING BRACKET

+ 8 hidden pages