Schumacher Battery Charger SC1306 Manual

The Schumacher SC1306 is a fully automatic 6/12V battery charger and maintainer with microprocessor control, automatic voltage detection, multi-stage charging (bulk, absorption, float), reverse hook-up protection, and battery reconditioning mode. It features LED indicators for status, spark-proof clamps, and is designed for lead-acid, AGM, and gel cell batteries. 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 Indicators 6. Charging Procedure 7. Battery Reconditioning Mode 8. Maintenance & Storage 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Microprocessor control unit, charging cables with clamps, LED status indicators, mode selection buttons, AC power cord.

Feature	Description
Automatic Voltage Detection	Detects 6V or 12V battery automatically
Multi-Stage Charging	Bulk, absorption, and float stages for optimal charging
Battery Reconditioning	Desulfation mode to restore deeply discharged batteries
Reverse Polarity Protection	Prevents damage if clamps are connected incorrectly
Spark-Proof Technology	Safe connection to battery terminals
LED Status Indicators	Shows charging, maintenance, fault, and reconditioning status
Fully Automatic Operation	Once connected, charger manages entire process
Compact Design	Lightweight and portable for garage or workshop use
Compatible Battery Types	Standard lead-acid, AGM, gel cell (flooded and sealed)
Float/Maintenance Mode	Keeps battery at full charge without overcharging

Safety Instructions

Read all instructions before use. Charger contains electrical components.

Work in well-ventilated area: Batteries produce explosive gases.
Wear eye protection: Shield eyes when working near batteries.
Keep away from children: Do not allow unsupervised use.
Do not charge frozen battery: Thaw completely before charging.
Disconnect AC power before connecting/disconnecting clamps.

WARNING! Risk of explosion or electric shock. Follow all safety precautions. Do not disassemble charger.

First-Time Setup

Unpack charger and inspect for damage. Verify included components.

Select location: Dry, level surface away from flammable materials.
Prepare battery: Clean terminals if corroded. Ensure battery is at room temperature.
Connect clamps: RED to positive (+), BLACK to negative (-) terminal.
Plug into outlet: Use grounded 120V AC outlet only.
Charger will automatically detect voltage and begin charging sequence.

CAUTION! Ensure polarity is correct. Reverse connection may activate protection mode.

Specifications

Model: SC1306
Input Voltage: 120V AC, 60Hz
Output Voltage: 6V/12V DC automatic selection
Charging Current: 1.5A (normal charge), 15A (engine start assist)
Battery Types: Lead-acid, AGM, gel cell (flooded and sealed)
Microprocessor Control: Yes, fully automatic
Reconditioning Mode: Yes, for deeply discharged batteries
Protection Features: Reverse polarity, spark-proof, short circuit
Dimensions: 7.5" x 3.5" x 8" (approx.)
Weight: 3.5 lbs
Warranty: Limited 1-year warranty

Controls and Indicators

Front panel features LED indicators and mode button.

LED Indicators:

POWER (Green): AC power is connected
CHARGING (Red): Battery is charging (bulk/absorption stage)
MAINTENANCE (Green): Float/maintenance mode active
FAULT (Red): Error detected (reverse polarity, bad battery)
RECONDITION (Yellow): Reconditioning mode active

Controls:

MODE Button: Press to select between normal charge and recondition mode
Engine Start Assist: Automatic when connected to severely discharged battery

Charging Procedure

Follow these steps for safe and effective charging.

Ensure battery is in a well-ventilated area and terminals are clean.
Connect charger clamps: RED to positive (+), BLACK to negative (-).
Plug charger into grounded 120V AC outlet.
Charger will automatically:
- Detect battery voltage (6V or 12V)
- Begin bulk charging (CHARGING LED red)
- Switch to absorption stage
- Enter float/maintenance mode (MAINTENANCE LED green)
When charging is complete, unplug AC cord first, then remove clamps.

Tip: For maintenance charging, leave connected indefinitely. Charger will maintain optimal voltage.

Battery Reconditioning Mode

Use reconditioning mode for deeply discharged or sulfated batteries.

Connect charger to battery as normal.
Press and hold MODE button for 3 seconds until RECONDITION LED lights.
Charger will enter desulfation pulse mode (may take 24+ hours).
After reconditioning, charger automatically switches to normal charge cycle.
Monitor FAULT LED; if it lights, battery may be unusable.

WARNING! Reconditioning may not revive all batteries. Do not use on frozen or damaged batteries.

Maintenance & Storage

Keep charger clean and inspect regularly.

Unplug and disconnect from battery before cleaning.
Wipe exterior with dry cloth; do not use liquids.
Inspect cables and clamps for damage; replace if worn.
Store in dry location away from extreme temperatures.
Periodically charge charger by connecting to battery if unused for months.

CAUTION! Do not expose to rain or moisture. Store in original packaging if possible.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits. UL listed. Copyright © Schumacher Electric Corporation. All trademarks are property of their respective owners. For technical support, visit www.schumacherelectric.com or contact 1-800-621-5485.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No LED lights when plugged in	No AC power	Check outlet; ensure power cord is fully inserted; try different outlet.
FAULT LED illuminated	Reverse polarity or bad battery	Disconnect and reconnect clamps correctly; test battery voltage.
CHARGING LED blinks	Battery voltage too low	Use reconditioning mode; battery may need replacement.
Charger won't switch to maintenance mode	Battery not holding charge	Check battery age and condition; may need replacement.
Spark when connecting clamps	Normal for discharged batteries	Ensure clamps are clean and making good contact.
Charger gets warm during use	Normal operation	Ensure ventilation; do not cover charger during operation.

Reset: Unplug from AC and battery for 5 minutes to reset microprocessor.

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