Schumacher Automatic PWI70300A - Manual (Page 7)

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Ammeter
The Ammeter indicates the amount of current, measured in amps, that is being drawn
by the battery. As a battery takes on a charge, it draws less current from the charger.
Correspondingly, the meter will show less current being drawn by the battery. When the
current stops decreasing, the battery is charged. The 4 amp charge rate may indicate
some activity on the meter, although the meter does not have the resolution to display
this low rate.
Voltmeter
The voltmeter indicates the voltage at the battery terminals. The charger need not be
plugged into an AC outlet. The timer should be in the OFF position. Then connect the
charger following the instructions in Sections 5 and 6. Observe the meter indication.
Keep in mind that this reading is only a battery voltage reading; a false surface charge
may mislead you. We suggest that you turn on the headlights for a couple of minutes
before you read the meter. Read it a few minutes after you have shut off the headlights.
If the reading is less than 10.5 volts, the battery may be bad or the connection at the
charger may be poor. If the reading is 10.5–12.5 volts, the battery is low – recharge it. If
the reading is above 12.8 volts, the battery is charged.
Charge Rate Selector Switch
Use the Charge Rate selector switch to select the
charge rate or engine starting setting you require.
• 4A Slow Charge Rate – For charging small batteries,
such as those commonly used in garden tractors,
snowmobiles and motorcycles.
• 20A and 40A Fast and 70A Rapid Charge Rate –
For charging automotive, marine and deep-cycle
batteries. Not intended for industrial applications.
• 350A Engine Start – Provides 350 amps for cranking
an engine with a weak or run-down battery. Always
use in combination with a battery.
11. OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Thermal Runaway
As a safety precaution, the charger automatically reduces the current if it detects that
the battery may be getting too hot.
Charging
1. Ensure that all of the charger components are in place and in good working
condition, including the plastic boots on the battery clips. Make sure the electrolyte
(battery liquid) in each cell is at the correct level.
2. Set the charge rate switch and the timer to the OFF position.
3. Connect the battery following the precautions listed in Sections 5 and 6.
4. Connect the AC power following the precautions listed in Section 7.
5. Select the desired charge rate. NOTE: The 40 amp Manual rate is a manual mode
and will overcharge a battery if permitted to operate for extended periods of time.
Monitor the charging process often.
6. Turn the timer to 24H (Hold) or the selected charge time if using the 40 amp
Manual Mode.
7. To disconnect the charger, reverse the procedure.
NOTE: This charger is equipped with a safe start feature. In the Automatic 4, 20 and 70
amp charge rates, it will not supply current to the battery clips until a battery is properly
connected. Unlike traditional chargers, the clips will not spark if touched together. In the
Manual 40 amp charge rate, the clips will spark if accidently touched together.
Automatic Charging Modes
Put the timer in the 24H (Hold) position when using the battery charger in one of the
Automatic Modes (4, 20 or 70 amp), otherwise the timer will stop the charging process
when the time expires regardless of whether it is complete or not. The CHARGED
(green) LED will light when charging is complete and the charger goes into Maintain
Mode. The charger will not shut off. For a battery with a starting voltage under 1 volt, use
the Manual Mode (see Manual Charging section) first to pre-charge the battery for five
minutes, to get additional voltage into the battery for the charger to analyze.