Code 3 550 Series Beacon - Manual (Page 3)

3
!
WARNING!
Larger wires and tight connections will provide longer service life for components. For high current
wires it is highly recommended that terminal blocks or soldered connections be used with shrink tubing to
protect the connections. Do not use insulation displacement connectors (e.g. 3M
® Scotchlock type connec-
tors). Route wiring using grommets and sealant when passing through compartment walls. Minimize the
number of splices to reduce voltage drop. High ambient temperatures (e.g. under hood) will significantly
reduce the current carrying capacity of wires, fuses, and circuit breakers. Use "SXL" type wire in engine
compartment. All wiring should conform to the minimum wire size and other recommendations of the
manufacturer and be protected from moving parts and hot surfaces. Looms, grommets, cable ties, and
similar installation hardware should be used to anchor and protect all wiring.
Fuses or circuit breakers should be located as close to the power takeoff points as possible and
properly sized to protect the wiring and devices.
Particular attention should be paid to the location and method of making electrical connections and
splices to protect these points from corrosion and loss of conductivity.
Ground terminations should only be made to substantial chassis components, preferably directly to the
vehicle battery.
The user should install a fuse sized to approximately 125% of the maximum Amp capacity in the supply
line to protect against short circuits. For example, a 30 Amp fuse should carry a maximum of 24 Amps. DO
NOT USE 1/4" DIAMETER GLASS FUSES AS THEY ARE NOT SUITABLE FOR CONTINUOUS DUTY IN
SIZES ABOVE 15 AMPS. Circuit breakers are very sensitive to high temperatures and will "false trip" when
mounted in hot environments or operated close to their capacity.
!
WARNING!
1) Rust Stains: The magnetic mount is not intended as a permanent mounting for the beacon. Long
duration usage of any magnet will expose the high iron content of the steel causing 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 part stores.
3) As with any magnetically-mounted warning device, its use on the exterior of a moving vehicle is at
the sole discretion and responsibility of the user.
This magnetic mount product provides a secure, temporary installation in most circumstances and is
recommended for stationary use only. For maximum warning signal, mount the beacon on the highest
possible flat, level surface of the vehicle.
To Operate: Plug Code 3 supplied coil cord into a 12 volt D.C. cigarette lighter; rotate and push firmly to
insure the best possible connection. The beacon should be placed in the center of the roof where the
least amount of curvature takes place. The magnetic beacon should not be used on a vinyl covered roof.
Before installing, check magnet for clinging debris. Any foreign matter can reduce holding power and
scratch the vehicle's paint. The roof surface should be dry and have a dull, not glossy finish. A glossy,
highly waxed finish will reduce the friction and the magnets, though quite powerful, will have a greatly
reduced magnetic effect. Place and remove your beacon without sliding to avoid scratching. When
removing, lift one edge, then the other straight up without sliding.
Stanchion Mounting
The 550 TM Beacon can be modified for stanchion mounting by purchasing one of the factory available
threaded flanges, 1 /
2
" NPT, 3 /
4
" NPT or 1" NPT kits. A universal pipe flange mounting kit is also available.
Magnetic Mounting