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AUTOMATIC / MANUAL BATTERY CHARGERS
RETURN TO MAIN MENU
/ STARTERS HOUSEHOLD CHARGERS
For use with machines having Code Numbers:
Safety Depends on You
Century battery chargers and
Starters household chargers
equipment is designed and built
with safety in mind. However,
your overall safety can be
increased by proper installation
... and thoughtful operation on
your part. DO NOT INSTALL,
OPERATE OR REPAIR THIS
EQUIPMENT WITHOUT READING THIS MANUAL AND THE
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS CONTAINED THROUGHOUT. And,
most importantly, think before
you act and be careful.
11863, 11864
K3152-1 10/2/55 Automatic / Manual
IM10138
December, 2012
K3153-1 15/2/100 Automatic / Manual
OPERATORʼS MANUAL
Century Equipment
2345 Murphy Blvd. Gainesville, GA 30504
Page 2
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SAFETY
i
Congratulations on the purchase of your new battery charger. We wish
to acknowledge Underwriters Laboratories (U/L) for contributing the following important safety precautions. Please read and retain these
instructions for the continued safe use of your new charger.
This manual contains important safety information. DO NOT OPERATE
this equipment UNTIL YOU HAVE READ this safety summary!
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS. SAVE
THESE INSTRUCTIONS
9. NEVER operate this battery charger if it has received a sharp blow,
been dropped, or similarly damaged, until after being inspected
and/or repaired by qualified service personnel.
10. NEVER disassemble this battery charger. Take the battery charger
to qualified service personnel when service or repair is needed.
11. ALWAYS plug in and unplug the ac power cord by grasping the
power cord plug, NOT THE POWER CORD, to reduce risk of damaging power cord.
SAFETY INFORMATION
The following safety information is provided as guidelines to help you
operate your new battery charger under the safest possible conditions.
Any equipment that uses electrical power can be potentially dangerous
to use when safety or safe handling instructions are not known or not
followed. The following safety information is provided to give the user
the information necessary for safe use and operation.
A procedure step preceded by WARNING is an indication that the next
step contains a procedure that might be injurious to a person if proper
safety precautions are not heeded.
A procedure preceded by a CAUTION is an indication that the next step
contains a procedure that might damage the equipment being used.
A NOTE may be used before or after a procedure step to highlight or
explain something in that step.
12. ALWAYS remove personal metal items such as rings, bracelets,
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 any jewelry to metal causing a severe burn.
13. ALWAYS unplug the battery charger from the ac outlet before
attempting any cleaning or maintenance. Turning the chargerʼs control(s) OFF, alone, will not remove all electricity from the charger.
14. An extension cord should not be used unless absolutely necessary.
Use of an improper extension cord could result in a fire or electric
shock. If an extension cord
must be used, make sure that:
a. the pins on the plug of the extension cord are the same number,
size, and shape as those of the plug on the charger,
b. the extension cord is properly wired and in good electrical condi-
tion, and
SHOCK HAZARDS
1. This battery charger is intended for indoor use only. Do not expose
the charger to rain or snow.
2. NEVER attempt to charge a marine (boat) battery while the boat is
on or near the water. A boat must be on a trailer and located indoors
before attempting to charge its battery(s). The boat manufacturerʼs
battery charging instructions must be followed exactly.
3. NEVER set the charger, output cable or clamps, or ac power cord
plug in water or on wet surfaces.
4. NEVER use this charger on a pier or dock. Charger could fall in
water, creating an electric shock hazard.
5. NEVER attempt to plug in or operate the battery charger with defective or damaged wires, power cord, or power cord plug. Have any of
these parts that are defective or damaged replaced by qualified personnel IMMEDIATELY.
6. NEVER attempt to plug in the charger or operate its controls with wet
hands or while standing in water.
7. NEVER alter the ac power cord or power cord plug provided with the
battery charger.
8. NEVER use an attachment not recommended or sold by the battery
charger manufacturer for use with this specific model battery charger.
c. the wire size is large enough for the length of cord as specified in
the following chart:
1. Working in the vicinity of a lead-acid battery is dangerous. Batteries
generate explosive gasses during normal operations and, at an even
higher level, during charging.
If anything is allowed to ignite these gasses, the battery may
explode, sending pieces of the battery and extremely caustic battery
acid out in all directions and with extreme force. Since just the slightest spark is sufficient to ignite these gasses, it is of UTMOST
IMPORTANCE that you read this manual and follow the instructions
exactly, before using your battery charger each time.
2. NEVER operate this battery charger near any fuel tanks or gas cylinders. This charger can produce sparks that could ignite gasses and
cause an explosion.
3. NEVER attempt to permanently mount this battery charger on a
marine or recreational vehicle.
4. NEVER attempt to connect this chargerʼs output cables directly to
the battery(s) in the bilge or engine compartment of a boat. Follow
the boat manufacturerʼs battery charging instructions exactly
Length in feet: 25 50 100 150
cord AWG size: 18 18 16 14
EXPLOSIVE GAS HAZARDS
AUTOMATIC / MANUAL BATTERY CHARGERS / STARTERS HOUSEHOLD CHARGERS
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BATTERY EXPLOSION HAZARDS
SAFETY
14. ALWAYS make sure the battery compartment is open and well ventilated before charging.
ii
1. To reduce the risk of battery explosion, read, understand, and follow
these instructions, those published by the battery manufacturer, and
those of the manufacturer of any equipment you intend to use near
the battery. Review cautionary markings on these products and on
the engine. If unable to determine the battery manufacturerʼs requirements for charging, always charge the battery with the cell caps in
place. In addition, make certain that anyone else that uses this
equipment, or is a bystander in the vicinity of a charging battery,
understands and follows these safety instructions as well.
2. NEVER smoke or allow a spark or flame in the vicinity of the battery
or engine.
3. NEVER operate the battery charger in a closed-in area or restrict
ventilation in any way.
4. NEVER charge a frozen battery as battery explosion can result.
5. NEVER connect BOTH battery charger clamps DIRECTLY to the two
posts of the same battery. See OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS for
connection procedures.
6. NEVER charge batteries other than a LEAD-ACID type. Especially,
DO NOT use for charging dry-cell batteries that are commonly used
with toys and home appliances. These batteries may burst and
cause injury to persons or damage property.
1. NEVER use an attachment not recommended or sold by the battery
charger manufacturer for use with your specific model charger.
2. NEVER disassemble the battery charger; take it to qualified service
personnel when service or repair is needed.
3. ALWAYS make sure that the ac power cord is unplugged from the ac
outlet or extension cord, BEFORE connecting or disconnecting the
battery charger clamps, to prevent arcing or burning.
1. ALWAYS have someone within range of your voice and close
enough to quickly come to your aid when working near a lead-acid
battery.
2. ALWAYS have plenty of fresh water and soap nearby in case battery
acid contacts eyes, skin, or clothing.
3. ALWAYS wear complete eye and clothing protection and avoid
touching eyes while working with a battery.
FIRE HAZARDS
BATTERY ACID HAZARDS
7. NEVER allow the dc output clamps to touch each other.
8. ALWAYS be extra cautious to reduce the risk of dropping a metal
object, such as a tool, onto or near the battery. Doing so could produce a spark or short circuit the battery or other electrical part that
could cause an explosion.
9. ALWAYS make sure the area around a battery is well ventilated
while it is being charged. Gas can be forcefully blown away by using
a piece of cardboard or other non-metallic material as a fan.
10. ALWAYS make sure that the ac power cord is unplugged from the
ac outlet or extension cord BEFORE connecting or disconnecting
the battery charger clamps, to prevent arcing or burning.
11. ALWAYS locate the battery charger as far away from the battery as
the dc output cables will permit.
12. ALWAYS twist or rock charger clamps back and forth several times
on the battery post and the other point of connection at the time of
initial connection. This helps keep the clamps from slipping off their
points of connection which helps reduce the risk of sparking. DO
NOT rock the clamp connected to the battery post AFTER the second connection (at a point away from the battery) is made or sparking may occur at the battery post.
13. ALWAYS check the cable and wire connections at the battery(s) for
tightness - BEFORE STARTING TO CHARGE. A loose connection
can cause sparks or excessive heating which could cause a battery
explosion.
4. ALWAYS act QUICKLY if contact with battery acid is made. If acid
contacts skin or clothing, wash IMMEDIATELY with soap and water.
If acid enters the eye, IMMEDIATELY flood the eye with running cold
water for at least 10 minutes. Get medical attention IMMEDIATELY.
1. NEVER connect the battery charger clamps to a vehicle when the
engine is running.
2. ALWAYS stay clear of fan blades, fan belts, pulleys and other moving engine parts when working near an engine. Moving engine parts
can cause severe personal injury including dismemberment.
3. ALWAYS make sure that the battery charger cables and clamps are
positioned so they will not come in contact with any moving engine
parts.
1. NEVER lean on or rest against the engine or cooling system parts
when the vehicle is running.
2. ALWAYS stay clear of the cooling system, engine, and engine manifold. These engine components get very hot and retain heat for a
long time. Touching any of these components can cause severe
burns.
AUTOMATIC / MANUAL BATTERY CHARGERS / STARTERS HOUSEHOLD CHARGERS
MOVING PARTS HAZARDS
BURN HAZARDS
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Installation.......................................................................................................................Section A
HOW BATTERIES CHARGE ...............................................................................................A-1
SPARK PREVENTION, DEEPLY-DISCHARGED ...............................................................A-1
LEAD-CALCIUM BATTERIES ......................................................................................A-1
CHARGER PREPARATION.................................................................................................A-2
CHARGER PLACEMENT .............................................................................................A-2
PROVIDE REQUIRED POWER...........................................................................................A-2
EXTENSION CORDS ...................................................................................................A-2
BATTERY PREPARATION ..................................................................................................A-2
Operation.........................................................................................................................Section B
DESCRIPTION.....................................................................................................................B-1
CONTROLS AND INDICATORS ..................................................................................B-1, B-2
CONTROL SETTING INSTRUCTIONS ...............................................................................B-3
CHARGE VOLTAGE AND RATE SELECTION ...................................................................B-3
PRE-CHARGE BATTERY ACTIVATION .............................................................................B-3
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ............................................................................................B-3
CONNECTING TO BATTERIES INSTALLED IN VEHICLES ..............................................B-4
RATE SELECTION ..............................................................................................................B-4
CONNECTING TO BATTERIES OUTSIDE A VEHICLE .....................................................B-4
CHARGING INSTRUCTIONS ..............................................................................................B-5
READING AN AMMETER ....................................................................................................B-5
CHARGING TIME INSTRUCTIONS ....................................................................................B-6
ENGINE STARTING ............................................................................................................B-7
iii
TROUBLESHOOTING...................................................................................Section F-1
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A-1
INSTALLATION
A-1
HOW BATTERIES CHARGE
A charger DOES NOT FORCE current into a battery - it
makes a limited amount of current available and the battery
draws as much of it as it needs, up to or slightly greater than
the rated output current capability of the charger.
The closer a battery is to zero charge (dead battery), the
more charging current it will want to draw. When charging
begins, on a dead battery, the chargers ammeter will register toward the high end of the ammeter scale and move
toward zero as the battery becomes more fully charged.
KEEP IN MIND, the ammeter registers the amount of
amperage being drawn from the charger by the battery, not
what the charger is capable of delivering.
One would expect a battery to draw zero amps when it
reaches 100% charge. But at 100% charge, the battery will
continue to draw a low level of current and convert it into
heat within the battery. If left connected and charging after
reaching 100% charge, the battery acid will begin to boil,
resulting in overcharging and possible battery damage.
NOTE: A slow bubbling sound may be heard coming from
the battery during the charging process. This is a normal
condition and just another indicator the battery is being
charged.
DEEPLY-DISCHARGED LEAD-CALCIUM BATTERIES
Some modern batteries can cause charging problems if they
have been deeply discharged. The plates in these batteries
began sulfating quickly, forming a barrier to accepting a
charge. This condition will be indicated by a extremely low
(or zero) ammeter reading. A deeply discharged battery
such as this may take as long as 4 to 8 hours before it will
accept a charge. When charging a battery with this condition, set the RATE SELECTOR to a 10-15 amp manual
charge rate and check on the battery every 30 minutes.
When the sulfate barrier has been broken through, the battery will began accepting a charge and the ammeter will register a higher, normal charging rate. The amount of time to
charge the battery fully (determined in CHARGING TIME
INSTRUCTIONS) began when the battery begins accepting
a charge.
To reduce the risk of battery overcharging, it is important to
thoroughly read this instruction manual.
SPARK PREVENTION
MAKE SURE no sparks or flames occur near the battery,
especially during charging. It takes very little to ignite the
explosive gasses produced by a lead-acid battery. Read,
understand, and follow the safety information provided in the
SAFETY SUMMARY section of this manual before attempting to work with or near a lead-acid battery.
For more information about batteries and battery charging,
contact Battery Council International at (312) 644-6610, and
request their BATTERY SERVICE MANUAL, which is available for a nominal charge.
AUTOMATIC / MANUAL BATTERY CHARGERS / STARTERS HOUSEHOLD CHARGERS
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A-2
INSTALLATION
A-2
CHARGER PREPARATION
CHARGER PLACEMENT
Place the charger in a clean, dry, stable, well-ventilated spot as far away from the battery as the dc output
cables permit.
NEVER place the charger directly above the battery
being charged; gasses from the battery will corrode
and damage the charger.
NEVER allow battery acid to drip on the charger when
reading specific gravity or filling the battery.
NEVER set a battery on top of the charger.
NEVER attempt to permanently mount this battery
charger on a marine or recreational vehicle.
ALWAYS position the charger on the outside of a boat
or recreational vehicle.
PROVIDE REQUIRED POWER
This battery charger requires a nominal 120 volt, 60
Hertz, 15 amp ac power source.
DO NOT PLUG THE CHARGER INTO THE AC
POWER SOURCE UNTIL TOLD TO DO SO IN THE
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS.
WARNING
FIRE CAN KILL, INJURE, AND CAUSE
PROPERTY DAMAGE!
To reduce risk of electric shock and fire, never alter
the ac power cord or power cord plug provided on the
charger. Never alter extension cords or extension cord
plugs. Make sure the extension cord is properly wired
and in good electrical condition. Make sure the wire
size (American Wire Gauge or AWG) of the extension
cord is large enough to handle your specific chargerʼs
amperage requirements.
BATTERY PREPARATION
WARNING
BATTERY EXPLOSION CAN INJURE, AND
CAUSE PROPERTY DAMAGE! NEVER
SMOKE OR ALLOW A SPARK OR FLAME
IN THE VICINITY OF THE BATTERY OR
ENGINE.
If it is necessary to remove the battery from the vehicle to charge it, make sure all accessories in the vehicle are off and ALWAYS remove the grounded cable
from the battery FIRST.
WARNING
ELECTRIC SHOCK CAN KILL!
To reduce risk of electric shock, never alter ac power
cord or power cord plug provided on the charger. If it
will not fit the outlet, have a proper outlet installed by a
qualified electrician. Never use an adapter.
The charger must be grounded to reduce risk of electric shock. The charger is equipped with an electric
cord that has an equipment grounding plug. The plug
must be plugged into an outlet that is properly
installed and grounded in accordance with all local
codes and ordinances.
EXTENSION CORDS
An extension cord should not be used unless
absolutely necessary. If necessary, care must be
taken to select an extension cord suitable for use with
your specific battery charger (see SHOCK HAZARDS
in SAFETY SUMMARY).
NOTE: Engine starting performance may be reduced
when extension cords are used.
AUTOMATIC / MANUAL BATTERY CHARGERS / STARTERS HOUSEHOLD CHARGERS
If needed, add distilled water to each cell of the battery until battery acid reaches the manufacturerʼs
specified level. DO NOT OVERFILL. This helps
remove excessive explosive gasses from the battery.
For maintenance free batteries without caps, carefully
follow the battery manufacturerʼs recharging instructions.
WARNING
BATTERY ACID CAN CAUSE SERIOUS
INJURY AND PROPERTY DAMAGE!
Always wear complete eye and clothing protection
and avoid touching eyes while working near battery.
Clean battery terminals. Be careful to keep corrosion
from coming in contact with eyes.
Study all of the battery manufacturerʼs precautions,
such as whether cell caps should be left in place or
removed during charging, and the recommended
rates of charge for the specific battery. If you are
unable to determine the battery manufacturerʼs
requirements for charging, always charge the battery
with the cell caps in place.
If the battery voltage cannot be determined from the
information on the battery itself, refer to the ownerʼs
manual for the product in which the battery was
installed.
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B-1
OPERATION
B-1
DESCRIPTION
This battery charger is designed to handle the majority
of your charging and starting needs.
• HIGH AND LOW CHARGE RATES for most battery
sizes.
• High-AMPERAGE ENGINE START to help start
vehicles when the battery is too weak to do the job
alone.
• An AMMETER to monitor charging progress.
CONTROLS AND INDICATORS
(See figure B.1)
FIGURE B.1
Model K3152‐1
Deep Cycle setting for a fully
charged deep cycle battery
• LEDʼS - reverse connection and abnormal battery
red light, charging and charge complete green light.
• SAW-TOOTH CLAMPS assure good connection to
top or side-mount battery terminals.
• CHARGES 6 and 12 volt maintenance free conventional wet, AGM and batteries used in cars, trucks,
farm equipment, RV and commercial applications.
• HEAVY-DUTY CONSTRUCTION for long, troublefree life.
Manual Settings for charging
deeply discharged batteries that
automatic chargers cannot charge
Heavy Duty clamps for
good connections
Green LED Status Light
Red LED Status Light
ON – Reverse Hook Up
Blinking – Abnormal Condition
(wrong voltage selected or bad
battery)
Ammeter
The ammeter indicates the charging current being drawn from the
charger by the battery. As the battery becomes more fully charged, the
charge rate lessens and the ammeter needle moves toward the lower
amp numbers on the meter. During engine starting, the ammeter will
usually peg to the high-amperage end of the meter. There is no clear-cut
way to read an ammeter and determine exactly when charging is
complete when in a manual mode (if this charger is in a automatic mode,
a green light on the charger indicates battery is fully charged and shuts
off the charger output). When in a manual mode, at full charge, the
ammeter will still register some current draw approximately 20-50% of
the charger’s output rating. In many cases, overcharging can occur if the
charger is not disconnected when the battery reaches full charge - or
sooner, in the manual mode. Therefore, it is very important that you
follow the CHARGING TIME INSTRUCTIONS provided in this manual.
Several battery conditions can also cause the ammeter to appear to
indicate a battery near full charge, when in fact charging has only begun
such as a cold battery, a sulfated battery, or a deeply discharged lead
calcium battery (many newer automotive batteries).
ON – Battery is charged
Blinking – Battery is charging.
Note: This LED only works in
an Automatic Setting
55 Amp Engine
Start assist
Rate and Charging Mode Switch
Automatic Settings
2A, 12V for motorcycle, snowmobile, lawn &
garden or other small batteries.
10A, 12V for automobile, truck, farm equipment
and other medium to large batteries.
10A, 12V Deep Cycle for deep cycle batteries.
Manual Settings*
2A, 12V for motorcycle, snowmobile, lawn &
garden or other small batteries.
10A, 12V for automobile, truck, farm equipment
and other medium to large batteries.
10A, 6V for automotive, truck, farm equipment
and other vehicles that have 6V lead acid
batteries.
55A, 12V Start for starting a 12V vehicle with a
battery that is discharged. Only try to start for 3
seconds, then allow the charger to cool for 400
seconds to avoid damage.
* Note that the manual settings do not shut off and
the battery charge level must be monitored to
avoid over charging and damaging the battery
AUTOMATIC / MANUAL BATTERY CHARGERS / STARTERS HOUSEHOLD CHARGERS
Page 8
B-2
CONTROLS AND INDICATORS
(See figure B.2)
OPERATION
FIGURE B.2
B-2
Model K3153‐1
Red LED Status Light
ON – Reverse Hook Up
Blinking – Abnormal Condition
(wrong voltage selected or bad
battery)
Ammeter
The ammeter indicates the charging current being drawn from the
charger by the battery. As the battery becomes more fully charged, the
charge rate lessens and the ammeter needle moves toward the lower
amp numbers on the meter. During engine starting, the ammeter will
usually peg to the high-amperage end of the meter. There is no clear-cut
way to read an ammeter and determine exactly when charging is
complete when in a manual mode (if this charger is in a automatic mode,
a green light on the charger indicates battery is fully charged and shuts
off the charger output). When in a manual mode, at full charge, the
ammeter will still register some current draw approximately 20-50% of
the charger’s output rating. In many cases, overcharging can occur if the
charger is not disconnected when the battery reaches full charge - or
sooner, in the manual mode. Therefore, it is very important that you
follow the CHARGING TIME INSTRUCTIONS provided in this manual.
Several battery conditions can also cause the ammeter to appear to
indicate a battery near full charge, when in fact charging has only begun
such as a cold battery, a sulfated battery, or a deeply discharged lead
calcium battery (many newer automotive batteries).
Deep Cycle setting for a fully
charged deep cycle battery
Green LED Status Light
ON – Battery is charged
Blinking – Battery is charging.
Note: This LED only works in
an Automatic Setting
Manual Settings for charging
deeply discharged batteries that
automatic chargers cannot charge
Heavy Duty clamps for
good connections
100 Amp Engine
Start assist
Rate and Charging Mode Switch
Automatic Settings
2A, 12V for motorcycle, snowmobile, lawn &
garden or other small batteries.
15A, 12V for automobile, truck, farm equipment
and other medium to large batteries.
15A, 12V Deep Cycle for deep cycle batteries.
Manual Settings*
2A, 12V for motorcycle, snowmobile, lawn &
garden or other small batteries.
15A, 12V for automobile, truck, farm equipment
and other medium to large batteries.
15A, 6V for automotive, truck, farm equipment
and other vehicles that have 6V lead acid
batteries.
100A, 12V Start for starting a 12V vehicle with a
battery that is discharged. Only try to start for 3
seconds, then allow the charger to cool for 400
seconds to avoid damage.
* Note that the manual settings do not shut off and
the battery charge level must be monitored to
avoid over charging and damaging the battery
AUTOMATIC / MANUAL BATTERY CHARGERS / STARTERS HOUSEHOLD CHARGERS
Page 9
B-3
OPERATION
B-3
CONTROL SETTING INSTRUCTIONS
CHARGE VOLTAGE AND RATE SELECTION
Set the RATE SELECTOR to the same voltage and
charge rate that is appropriate for the size and type of
battery being charged. Use the battery manufacturer’s
specific instructions or see the guidelines below. If the
battery voltage is not clearly marked on the battery,
refer to the operator’s manual for the vehicle/ equipment where the battery is used / intended to be used.
Do not begin charging if the battery voltage cannot be
determined.
• Small Motorcycle type 3 Amps or less
• Lawn mower/Tractor 6 Amps or less
• Deep‐cycle 25 Amps or less
• Maintenance‐free Auto 45 Amps or less
or Marine Cranking
• Heavy‐duty Commercial 60 Amps or less
Unless the information is supplied for the particular
battery, always charge small 12‐volt batteries at no
more than 2 amps. Charge only standard sized 6 and
12 volt automobile batteries on this charger.
NOTE: The charger will not shut off on manual settings. Use charging time equations only to determine
the time needed to fully charge the battery or battery
damage may occur.
1. Make sure that the ac power cord is unplugged
from the ac outlet and make sure the vehicle’s
engine is turned off.
2. Position the ac power cord and dc output cables in
such a manner that they cannot be damaged by
moving engine parts or the vehicle’s hood or doors.
3. Check the polarity of the battery terminals. The
POSITIVE terminal should be marked: POSITIVE,
POS, + or P. The NEGATIVE terminal should be
marked: NEGATIVE, NEG, – or N.
4. Determine whether the vehicle has a positive or
negative grounded battery (positive or negative
cable is connected to the vehicle’s chassis).
WARNING
MOVING ENGINE PARTS CAN CAUSE
SERIOUS INJURY!
Stay clear of fan blades, belts, pulleys, and other moving engine parts to reduce risk of serious personal
injury.
a. Negative ground vehicles (The most common
type, see Figure B.3).
Negative to
Chassis Ground
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING
DO NOT ATTEMPT TO OPERATE THIS BATTERY
CHARGER until you have read and understood the
entire SAFETY SUMMARY provided in this manual.
NOTE: Proceeding with the operation of your battery
charger. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO OPERATE
THE CHARGER UNTIL ALL REQUIRED
USER-ASSEMBLY IS COMPLETED.
CONNECTING TO BATTERIES INSTALLED IN
VEHICLES
WARNING
Do not plug the charger power cord into the ac power
source or set any of the charger’s controls until told to
do so in the following instructions.
Positive
Figure B.3. Negative Ground
1. Connect the POSITIVE (red) clamp from the battery
charger to the POSITIVE, ungrounded terminal of
the battery.
2. Connect the NEGATIVE (black) clamp from the battery charger to a heavy gauge metal part of the
vehicle chassis or engine block away from the battery. DO NOT connect the NEGATIVE (N) (black)
charger clamp to the NEGATIVE battery terminal,
carburetor, fuel lines, or sheet metal body parts.
AUTOMATIC / MANUAL BATTERY CHARGERS / STARTERS HOUSEHOLD CHARGERS
Page 10
B-4
OPERATION
B-4
b. Positive ground vehicles (see Figure B.4)
Positive to
Chassis Ground
Negative
Figure B.4. Positive Ground
1. Connect the NEGATIVE (black) charger clamp to
the NEGATIVE, ungrounded terminal of the battery.
2. Connect the POSITIVE (red) charger clamp to a
heavy gauge metal part of the vehicle chassis or
engine block away from the battery. DO NOT connect the POSITIVE (red) charger clamp to the POSITIVE battery terminal, carburetor, fuel lines, or
sheet metal body parts.
WARNING
BATTERY EXPLOSION CAN INJURE, AND
CAUSE PROPERTY DAMAGE!
To reduce the risk of battery explosion, NEVER CONNECT BOTH BATTERY CHARGER CLAMPS
DIRECTLY TO THE TWO POSTS OF A BATTERY.
4. Connect the POSITIVE (red) charger clamp to the
POSITIVE battery terminal.
5. Position yourself and the free end of the cable
(attached to the NEGATIVE battery terminal) as far
away from the battery as the cable will allow. Then,
WHILE FACING AWAY FROM THE BATTERY,
connect the NEGATIVE charger clamp to the free
end of the cable.
CHARGING INSTRUCTIONS
1. Determine the length of time necessary to charge
the battery in CHARGING TIME INSTRUCTIONS,
but do not turn the charger on.
CONNECTING TO BATTERIES
OUTSIDE A VEHICLE
1. Make sure that the ac power cord is unplugged
from the ac power source.
2. Check the polarity of the battery terminals (see Figure
B.5). The POSITIVE terminal should be marked:
POSITIVE, POS, +, or P. The NEGATIVE terminal
should be marked: NEGATIVE, NEG, –, or N.
3. Attach a battery or booster cable, AT LEAST 24 inches long that is the same (or larger) wire gauge as the
charger cable, to the NEGATIVE terminal of the battery.
Booster
Cable
Negative (–)
Charger
Cable
Positive (+)
Charger
Cable
From
Charger
2. Set the rate and mode switch to OFF and connect
the charger power cord into an appropriate ac outlet.
3. Set charging voltage and rate to the desired setting.
WARNING
BATTERY EXPLOSION CAN INJURE, AND
CAUSE PROPERTY DAMAGE!
4. To reduce risk of battery explosion, do not overcharge a lead-acid battery. Follow disconnection
procedure EXACTLY.
5. When charging is complete, turn all charger controls to OFF. Then unplug the chargerʼs ac power
cord from the ac power source.
6. Disconnect the charger clamp NOT attached directly to the battery first and DO NOT allow the clamp
to touch anything. Then, disconnect the charger
clamp attached to the battery terminal.
Figure B.5. Connecting Outside The Vehicle
AUTOMATIC / MANUAL BATTERY CHARGERS / STARTERS HOUSEHOLD CHARGERS
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B-5
OPERATION
B-5
READING AN AMMETER
The ammeter indicates the charging current being
drawn from the charger by the battery. As the battery
becomes more fully charged, the charge rate lessens
and the ammeter needle moves toward the lower amp
numbers on the meter. During engine starting, the
ammeter will usually peg to the high-amperage end of
the meter.
There is no clear-cut way to read an ammeter and
determine exactly when charging is complete (if the
charger is so equipped, a green light on the charger
indicates battery is fully charged). At full charge, the
ammeter will still register some current draw (approximately 20-50% of the chargerʼs output rating). In
many cases, overcharging can occur if the charger is
not disconnected when the battery reaches full charge
or sooner. Therefore, it is very important that you follow the CHARGING TIME EQUATION provided in this
manual.
Several battery conditions can also cause the ammeter to appear to indicate a battery near full charge,
when in fact, charging has only begun.
• Cold Battery
• Sulfated Battery
• Deeply-Discharged, Lead-Calcium Battery (many
newer automotive batteries)
WARNING
• SHORTED BATTERIES - When the battery being
charged has a short circuit, the ammeter will peg at
the high-amp end of the scale. If after 5 to 10 minutes of charging, the needle has not started to
move toward lower amperages, unplug the charger
and discontinue charging.
If available, use a voltmeter and read the battery voltage. If the voltage is LESS THAN 12.0 volts for a 12
volt battery or LESS THAN 6.0 volts for a 6 volt battery, plug the charger back in and resume charging. If
after another 15 to 20 minutes, the ammeter has failed
to move toward lower amperages, repeat the voltmeter test. If the voltage has not increased, the battery needs to be serviced or replaced.
CAUTION
DO NOT USE AMMETER to determine when full
charge is reached. Failure to comply with this caution
could cause the battery to be damaged from overcharging. The battery could overheat and even
explode.
CHARGING TIME INSTRUCTIONS
Manual battery chargers need to be disconnected
from a battery when the battery has reached 100% of
charge OR SOONER. If this is not done, the battery
will overcharge, resulting in possible battery damage.
Be sure to follow the CHARGING TIME EQUATION
provided in this manual.
BATTERY EXPLOSION CAN INJURE, AND
CAUSE PROPERTY DAMAGE!
To reduce risk of battery explosion, check to make
sure a cold battery is not frozen. Battery explosion can
result from attempting to charge a frozen battery.
• COLD BATTERIES (temperatures lower than 32° F
or 0° C) will begin charging at a low rate of charge.
But as the battery warms up through charging, the
charge rate will increase. Then, as the battery
charges up, the charge rate will decrease normally.
• SULFATED or DEEPLY-DISCHARGED LEAD-
CALCIUM BATTERIES - require a special activation procedure. See DEEPLY DISCHARGED
LEAD-CALCIUM BATTERIES in CHARGING TIME
INSTRUCTIONS.
AUTOMATIC / MANUAL BATTERY CHARGERS / STARTERS HOUSEHOLD CHARGERS
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B-6
OPERATION
B-6
CHARGING TIME INSTRUCTIONS
The following instructions will allow you to determine
how long it will take to bring a specific battery to full
charge in a MANUAL charge setting. If you use an
AUTOMATIC setting, a green light on the charger will
indicate the battery has become fully charged, so you
can disregard this section.
CAUTION
Batteries that have 25% charge or less can easily
freeze and should be charged at once, but DO
NOT CHARGE A BATTERY THAT IS ALREADY
FROZEN.
1. Determine the present level of charge in the battery
with a hydrometer or electronic percent‐of‐charge
tester.
2. Determine the size of the battery in AMP HOURS
or RESERVE CAPACITY. If these ratings are not
printed on the battery, contact your local battery
dealer for this information. These are the only ratings that can be used to determine length of charging time. Then use the formula below to determine
the charging time.
NOTE: If the battery is rated in RESERVE CAPACI-
TY, use the following formula to convert
reserve capacity to amp‐hours.
Reserve Capacity
2
+ 15.5 = Amp‐Hour Rating
EXAMPLE:
Battery’s Present State of Charge: 25%
Percent of Charge Needed: 100% – 25% = 75%
Expressed as a Decimal: = .75
Amp setting on Charger: 10
Amp‐Hour Rating of Battery: 60
60 X .75
10
45
10
4.5 X 1.25 = Hours to Reach Full Charge
X 1.25 = Hours to Reach Full Charge
X 1.25 = Hours to Reach Full Charge
AUTOMATIC / MANUAL BATTERY CHARGERS / STARTERS HOUSEHOLD CHARGERS
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B-7
OPERATION
B-7
ENGINE STARTING(12V ONLY)
This battery charger can provide a high-current output
to help start a vehicle with a weak battery. However,
the onboard computer in some vehicles can be damaged when attempting to jump start. ALWAYS READ
THE VEHICLE OPERATORʼS MANUAL BEFORE
AUXILIARY STARTING to determine if jump starting
can do damage to the vehicle. If not, read and follow
these instructions.
CAUTION
Do not try to boost start a vehicle that does not contain a battery or you may damage electrical system in
the vehicle.
1. Connect the battery charger to the vehicle according to OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS.
2. Charge the battery for 5 to 10 minutes in the 10 or
15 amp manual setting.
3. Set the RATE SELECTOR to START and try to
start the vehicle. If the vehicle doesnʼt start after 3
seconds, stop and wait 400 seconds. Repeat until
engine starts.
2. Coil the input and output cables neatly after each
use. This will help prevent damage to the cables
and the charger.
3. If needed, the case may be wiped clean with a soft
cloth.
CAUTION
Excessive continuous engine cranking can damage
vehicle starter motors and the charger.
NOTE:
• If the engine spins but fails to start after several
starting attempts there is an engine problem not
related to the starting system. Discontinue cranking
the engine until the other problem is found and corrected.
• This battery charger has an internal thermal protector to prevent overheating and damage to the battery charger. If, after repeated starting attempts, the
ammeter registers zero output, wait 10 to 15 minutes for the charger to cool. The thermal protector
will automatically reset and allow you to continue.
Make sure charger is unplugged from ac outlet
before performing any cleaning or maintenance.
A minimum amount of care can keep your battery
charger working and looking good for years.
1. Clean the clamps after each use. Wipe off any
battery fluid that may have come in contact with
the clamps to prevent corrosion. Battery fluid may
be neutralized with a solution of water and baking
soda.
AUTOMATIC / MANUAL BATTERY CHARGERS / STARTERS HOUSEHOLD CHARGERS
Page 14
F-1
PROBLEMS
(SYMPTOMS)
TROUBLESHOOTING
Observe all Safety Guidelines detailed throughout this manual
POSSIBLE
SOLUTION
F-1
No Ammeter Reading (Battery does
not accept charge).
Ammeter shows reading, but battery
does not accept charge.
Vehicle will not start in engine start
mode.
1. Make sure charger is plugged into
live ac outlet.
2. After unplugging unit, check connection at battery. Make sure the
clamps are making good contact
with the battery terminal (or vehicle chassis).
3. Check to see that the battery is
capable of being charged. It may
be damaged or sulfated.
4. Make sure that you have selected
the proper charge voltage for the
battery being charged.
5. Make sure you are allowing
enough time for charging the battery. Refer to the charging time
formulas earlier in this manual.
1. Check to see that the battery is
capable of being charged. It may
be damaged or sulfated.
2. Make sure you are allowing
enough time for charging the battery. Refer to the charging time
formulas earlier in this manual.
1. Unplug charger and check connections as described above.
2. Determine if charger is charging; if
meter indicates any amperage,
charger is working; if no amperage
is indicated, wait several minutes
and recheck. Charger thermal protector may have tripped.
3. If engine turns over but does not
start, problem is with vehicle, not
charger. Service vehicle.
If all recommended possible areas of
misadjustment have been checked
and the problem persists. Call 1-
866-236-0044.
WARRANTY
For questions regarding warranty or
use, call 1-866-236-0044. Bench
Chargers are not serviced at service
centers.
No output in the Automatic Settings.
1. The output clamps will have no
output in the automatic settings
until some voltage from the battery
is present at the clamps. In the
manual settings, there should
always be voltage at the clamps.
CAUTION
If for any reason you do not understand the test procedures or are unable to perform the tests/repairs safely.
236-0044.
AUTOMATIC / MANUAL BATTERY CHARGERS / STARTERS HOUSEHOLD CHARGERS
Call 1-866-
Page 15
NOTES
AUTOMATIC / MANUAL BATTERY CHARGERS / STARTERS HOUSEHOLD CHARGERS
Page 16
Century Equipment
2345 Murphy Blvd. Gainesville, GA 30504
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