Schumacher SC1353 Battery Charger Manual

The Schumacher SC1353 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 (bulk, absorption, float/maintenance), reverse hook-up protection, and spark-proof technology. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: Microprocessor control unit, Charging cables with clamps, AC power cord, LED status indicators.

Feature	Description
Automatic Voltage Detection	Detects 6V or 12V battery automatically
Multi-Stage Charging	Bulk, Absorption, Float/Maintenance stages
Battery Type Support	Standard, AGM, Gel Cell lead-acid batteries
Reverse Hook-up Protection	Prevents damage if clamps are connected incorrectly
Spark-Proof Technology	Safe connection to battery terminals
Float/Maintenance Mode	Automatically maintains battery at full charge
LED Status Indicators	Shows charging status and fault conditions
Fully Automatic Operation	No manual settings required for standard charging
Compact Design	Lightweight and portable for easy storage
Overcharge Protection	Prevents battery damage from overcharging

Safety Instructions

Read all instructions before use. Keep charger dry and away from flammable materials.

Use in well-ventilated area: Batteries produce explosive gases.
Wear eye protection: Protect eyes from battery acid and sparks.
Do not charge frozen batteries: Thaw completely before charging.
Disconnect AC power before connecting/disconnecting clamps.
Keep children and pets away from charging area.

WARNING! Risk of explosive gases. Do not smoke or use open flames near battery. Connect and disconnect clamps carefully to avoid sparks.

Installation & Setup

Unpack charger and inspect for damage. Ensure work area is clean, dry, and well-ventilated.

Prepare battery: Clean terminals if corroded. Remove battery caps if applicable (check fluid level).
Connect clamps: RED clamp to POSITIVE (+) terminal. BLACK clamp to NEGATIVE (-) terminal or grounded metal.
Connect to power: Plug AC cord into 120V outlet. Charger will automatically detect battery voltage.
Monitor LEDs: Charging process begins automatically.

CAUTION! Always connect clamps in correct polarity. Reverse connection may activate protection and prevent charging.

Specifications

Model: SC1353
Input Voltage: 120V AC, 60Hz
Output Voltage: 6V/12V DC automatic selection
Charging Current: 1.5A (maximum)
Battery Types: Lead-Acid (Standard, AGM, Gel Cell)
Charging Stages: 3-stage (Bulk, Absorption, Float)
Protections: Reverse polarity, spark-proof, overcharge
Indicators: LED status lights (Power, Charging, Maintenance, Fault)
Cord Length: AC cord: 6 ft; Clamp cables: 3 ft
Operating Temperature: 32°F to 104°F (0°C to 40°C)
Dimensions: 7.5" x 3.5" x 2.5"
Weight: 2.2 lbs

Controls and Indicators

LED Status Panel: POWER (green), CHARGING (red), MAINTENANCE (green), FAULT (red).

LED Meanings:

POWER (green): AC power connected, charger ready
CHARGING (red): Battery is actively charging (Bulk/Absorption stage)
MAINTENANCE (green): Battery fully charged, maintaining voltage (Float stage)
FAULT (red): Error detected (reverse connection, bad battery, over-temperature)

Automatic Operation: No user controls needed for standard charging. Charger automatically selects voltage and charging stage.

Charging Procedure

For 6V or 12V lead-acid batteries (automotive, motorcycle, lawn tractor, etc.).

Ensure battery is in safe location, well-ventilated.
Connect RED clamp to battery POSITIVE (+) terminal.
Connect BLACK clamp to battery NEGATIVE (-) terminal or clean, unpainted metal on chassis.
Plug AC cord into 120V outlet. POWER LED will illuminate.
CHARGING LED will light during active charging (may take 4-12 hours depending on battery condition).
When MAINTENANCE LED lights, battery is fully charged and being maintained.
To disconnect: Unplug AC cord first, then remove BLACK clamp, then RED clamp.

Tip: For deeply discharged batteries, charger may take longer to begin charging. If FAULT LED lights, check connections and battery condition.

Maintenance Mode

After full charge, charger automatically switches to Float/Maintenance mode.

Maintains battery at optimal voltage without overcharging
Can be left connected indefinitely for seasonal storage
Ideal for motorcycles, boats, RVs, and seasonal vehicles
Automatically adjusts charge as needed to compensate for self-discharge

Note: For long-term storage, check battery and charger periodically. Ensure charging area remains dry and ventilated.

Care & Storage

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

Store in cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Keep cords neatly coiled to prevent damage.
Inspect clamps periodically for corrosion or damage.
Do not expose to rain, snow, or liquids.

CAUTION! Do not disassemble charger. No user-serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified personnel.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device. Complies with Canadian ICES-003. UL listed. Copyright © Schumacher Electric Corporation. All rights reserved. For technical support or warranty information, 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 plugged in.
FAULT LED illuminated	Reverse connection or bad battery	Disconnect and reconnect clamps correctly. Test battery voltage.
CHARGING LED never comes on	Deeply discharged or sulfated battery	Leave connected for 2 hours. If no change, battery may need replacement.
Charger gets warm during use	Normal operation	Some warmth is normal. If excessively hot, unplug and allow to cool.
Battery not holding charge	Old or damaged battery	Test battery with load tester. Battery may need replacement.
Spark when connecting clamps	Normal with some batteries	Ensure charger is plugged in before connecting clamps (spark-proof feature).

Reset: Unplug charger, disconnect clamps, wait 30 seconds, then reconnect in correct order.

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