Schumacher Battery Charger SC1359 Manual

The Schumacher SC1359 is a fully automatic battery charger and maintainer designed for 6V and 12V lead-acid batteries, including standard, AGM, and gel cell types. It features microprocessor-controlled charging, automatic voltage detection, multi-stage charging (including float mode maintenance), reverse hook-up protection, and a digital display showing charge status and battery voltage. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, specifications, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Instructions 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Indicators 6. Charging Procedure 7. Maintenance Mode 8. Error Codes & Diagnostics 9. Care & Storage 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

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

Feature	Description
Automatic Voltage Detection	Detects 6V or 12V battery automatically
Multi-Stage Charging	Bulk, Absorption, Float mode for optimal charging
Battery Type Support	Standard, AGM, Gel Cell
Digital Display	Shows battery voltage, charge status, and error codes
Reverse Polarity Protection	Prevents damage if clamps are connected incorrectly
Spark-Proof Technology	Safe connection after clamps are attached to battery
Fully Automatic Operation	Charges, tests, and maintains automatically
Compact Design	Lightweight and portable for garage or workshop
Maintenance (Float) Mode	Keeps battery at full charge without overcharging
AC Input	Standard 120V household outlet

Safety Instructions

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

Wear eye protection and avoid leaning over battery.
Do not charge frozen or damaged batteries.
Ensure charger is unplugged from AC before connecting clamps.
Connect RED clamp to POSITIVE (+) terminal first, then BLACK to NEGATIVE (-) or grounded chassis.
Plug charger into AC outlet only after clamps are securely connected.

WARNING! Risk of explosive gases. Keep sparks and flames away. Do not disconnect clamps while charger is powered on.

First-Time Setup

Unpack charger and inspect for damage. Read manual thoroughly.

Select location: Dry, stable surface away from battery and engine.
Prepare battery: Clean terminals, ensure vent caps are secure (if applicable).
For in-vehicle charging: Turn off ignition and all electrical loads.
Connect clamps following safety sequence (RED to +, BLACK to -).
Plug charger into 120V AC outlet. Unit will power on and begin automatic diagnosis.

CAUTION! Never connect to a battery that is not 6V or 12V lead-acid. Ensure clamps do not touch each other or metal surfaces.

Specifications

Model: SC1359
Input Voltage: 120V AC, 60Hz
Output Voltage: 6V / 12V DC Automatic
Charging Current: 1.5A (for 12V), 750mA (for 6V)
Battery Types: Standard (Wet), AGM, Gel Cell
Display: Digital LED (Voltage, Status, Error Codes)
Protections: Reverse Polarity, Short Circuit, Overcharge
Compliance: cETLus, RoHS
Operating Temp: 32°F to 104°F (0°C to 40°C)
Dimensions: Compact design for easy storage

Controls and Indicators

Front Panel: Digital Display, MODE Button, Battery Type Indicator LEDs.

Display Readouts: Battery Voltage (e.g., 12.6V), Charging Status (e.g., "CHG"), Maintenance Mode ("FLOAT"), Error Codes (e.g., "E1").

Mode Button: Press to cycle between battery types (Standard/AGM/Gel). Corresponding LED will illuminate. Charging Process Indicators: "CHG" (Charging), "FLOAT" (Maintenance), "FUL" (Fully Charged).

Charging Procedure

Automatic operation after correct connection.

Ensure charger is unplugged from AC.
Connect clamps to battery terminals (RED to +, BLACK to -).
Plug charger into AC outlet. Display will light up.
Charger automatically detects battery voltage (6V or 12V).
Press MODE button to select correct battery type (Standard, AGM, Gel).
Charger begins multi-stage process: Bulk (constant current), Absorption (constant voltage), then Float (maintenance).
Monitor display: "CHG" flashes during charge, solid "FUL" indicates complete charge.
To disconnect: Unplug AC cord first, then remove BLACK clamp, then RED clamp.

Tip: For deeply discharged batteries (< 2V), charger may display error. Try a manual start or consult troubleshooting.

Maintenance Mode

After full charge, unit switches to Float Mode to maintain optimal charge indefinitely.

Display shows "FLOAT".
Charger monitors voltage and provides tiny pulses if needed.
Safe for long-term connection (weeks/months).
Ideal for seasonal vehicles, boats, lawn equipment.

Note: Periodically check connections and battery condition during long-term storage.

Error Codes & Diagnostics

Digital display shows error codes for fault conditions.

Code	Meaning	Action
E1	Reverse Polarity	Check clamp connections. Disconnect and reconnect correctly.
E2	Battery Voltage Too Low/High	Check if battery is below 2V or non-6V/12V. Replace battery if faulty.
E3	Over Temperature	Allow charger and battery to cool. Move to cooler location.
E4	Charger Internal Fault	Unplug, wait 1 minute, retry. If persists, contact service.

Care & Storage

Unplug and disconnect clamps before cleaning. Wipe with dry cloth only.

Store in a cool, dry place. Coil cords loosely to prevent damage.

CAUTION! Do not immerse in water or use chemical cleaners. Keep ventilation slots clear.

Regulatory Information

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that it does not cause harmful interference. cETLus listed. RoHS compliant. Copyright © Schumacher Electric Corp. For support, visit www.schumacherelectric.com or contact customer service at 1-800-621-5485.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Display blank, no power	AC outlet dead / cord not plugged in	Check outlet with another device. Ensure cord is fully inserted.
Charger not starting	Battery deeply discharged / bad connection	Check clamp connections. Try on a known good battery.
Error Code E1 displayed	Clamps reversed	Disconnect, then connect RED to +, BLACK to -.
Charger stops quickly	Battery may be fully charged or defective	Check battery voltage. If below 12V for 12V battery, battery may be sulfated.
Battery gets hot	Overcharging / wrong battery type selected	Disconnect charger. Ensure correct battery type (Standard/AGM/Gel) is selected.
Spark when connecting	Charger was plugged in / Clamps touched	Always connect clamps BEFORE plugging into AC. Ensure clamps only touch terminals.

Reset: Unplug from AC and battery for 2 minutes to reset microprocessor.

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