Schumacher Battery Charger Manual SC1353

The Schumacher SC1353 is a fully automatic battery charger and maintainer designed for 12V lead-acid batteries, including standard, AGM, gel-cell, and deep-cycle batteries. It features microprocessor-controlled charging, a digital display, multiple charging modes (including a 50A engine start function), reverse hook-up protection, and a battery reconditioning mode. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Instructions 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Display 6. Charging Procedures 7. Maintenance Mode 8. Engine Start Function 9. Care & Storage 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Microprocessor control unit, Digital LCD display, Charging clamps (red/black), AC power cord, Mode selection buttons.

FeatureDescription
Fully Automatic ChargingMicroprocessor selects optimal charge rate and switches to float maintenance
Digital DisplayShows battery voltage, charge status, and error codes
50A Engine StartProvides extra power to assist in starting vehicles
Battery Recondition ModeHelps recover lightly sulfated batteries
Multi-Battery SupportCharges standard, AGM, gel-cell, and deep-cycle batteries
Reverse Polarity ProtectionPrevents damage if clamps are connected incorrectly
Spark-Proof TechnologyReduces risk of spark when connecting clamps
Compact DesignPortable unit with carrying handle

Safety Instructions

Read all instructions before use. Use in well-ventilated area.

  1. Personal Safety: Wear eye protection. Keep away from children.
  2. Battery Safety: Do not charge frozen or damaged batteries. Ensure battery area is ventilated.
  3. Electrical Safety: Plug charger into grounded 120V AC outlet. Do not use with extension cords.
  4. Connection Order: Connect charger to battery BEFORE plugging into AC outlet.

WARNING! Risk of explosive gases. Keep sparks and flames away from battery. Do not disassemble charger.

First-Time Setup

Unpack charger and inspect for damage. Read manual completely.

  1. Select Location: Place on stable, dry, non-flammable surface near battery.
  2. Prepare Battery: Clean battery terminals. Remove caps from vented batteries (if applicable).
  3. Initial Test: Connect clamps to battery (RED to positive+, BLACK to negative-).
  4. Power On: Plug charger into AC outlet. Display will illuminate.

CAUTION! Ensure clamps do not touch each other or any metal surface during connection.

Specifications

Controls and Display

Front Panel: MODE button, ENGINE START button, Display Screen, Status LEDs.

Display Indicators: Battery Voltage, Charge Current, Charge Status (Charging/Maintaining/Error), Battery Type Icon.

Mode Selection: Press MODE button to cycle through: 2A (Maintain) → 10A (Charge) → AGM/GEL (Specialty) → RECOND (Recondition).

Engine Start: Hold ENGINE START button for 3 seconds to activate 50A boost (max 5 seconds on, 3 minutes cool down).

Charging Procedures

Follow these steps for safe, effective charging.

  1. Verify Battery: Ensure battery is 12V and compatible.
  2. Connect Clamps: RED clamp to positive (+) terminal. BLACK clamp to negative (-) terminal or vehicle chassis.
  3. Select Mode: Press MODE to choose appropriate setting (10A for standard charge).
  4. Monitor: Display will show charging progress. Charger will automatically switch to float maintenance when complete.
  5. Disconnect: Unplug AC cord first, then remove BLACK clamp, then RED clamp.

Tip: For deeply discharged batteries (<2V), charger may need several minutes to detect voltage before beginning charge cycle.

Maintenance Mode

The 2A maintenance mode keeps batteries at optimal charge during storage.

  1. Connect charger as described in Charging Procedures.
  2. Press MODE until "2A MAINTAIN" appears on display.
  3. Charger will maintain battery indefinitely without overcharging.
  4. Ideal for seasonal vehicles, boats, motorcycles, and RV batteries.

Note: Maintenance mode can be used continuously for up to 6 months. Check connections monthly.

Engine Start Function

The 50A engine start provides temporary power boost to assist starting.

  1. Connect charger to battery following normal procedure.
  2. Ensure vehicle ignition is OFF.
  3. Press and hold ENGINE START button for 3 seconds until indicator lights.
  4. Attempt to start vehicle within 5 seconds.
  5. If engine doesn't start, wait 3 minutes before next attempt.

WARNING! Do not use engine start function for more than 5 seconds continuously. Allow charger to cool between attempts.

Care & Storage

Unplug and disconnect from battery before cleaning. Wipe with dry cloth only.

Storage: Store in cool, dry location. Coil cords neatly. Keep clamps separated.

CAUTION! Do not expose to water or extreme temperatures. Do not store with clamps connected to battery.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits. UL Listed. Copyright © Schumacher Electric Corporation. All rights reserved. For technical support, visit www.schumacherelectric.com or contact 1-800-621-5485.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Display blankNo AC powerCheck outlet; ensure charger is plugged in; check circuit breaker.
"Error" or "Bad Batt"Battery voltage too low or too highVerify battery is 12V; check connections; battery may be damaged.
Not chargingReverse polarityCheck clamp connections (RED to +, BLACK to -).
Charger overheatsVentilation blockedMove to cooler location; ensure vents are clear.
Engine start not workingBattery severely dischargedCharge battery normally first; ensure clamps have solid connection.
Slow chargingLarge battery or deep dischargeThis is normal; allow more time for complete charge.

Reset: Unplug charger, disconnect from battery, wait 2 minutes, then reconnect.

Service: 1-800-621-5485; www.schumacherelectric.com

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