Schumacher SC1359 Battery Charger Manual

The Schumacher SC1359 is a fully automatic microprocessor-controlled battery charger and maintainer designed for 6V and 12V lead-acid batteries, including standard, AGM, gel-cell, and deep-cycle batteries. It features multi-stage charging (bulk, absorption, float), a digital display, reverse hook-up protection, spark-proof technology, and a battery reconditioning mode. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Precautions 3. Installation & Initial Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Display 6. Charging Procedures 7. Battery Reconditioning Mode 8. Maintenance & Storage 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Digital LCD display, Mode selection buttons, Battery clamps (red/black), AC power cord, Charging status indicators.

FeatureDescription
Fully Automatic ChargingMicroprocessor-controlled multi-stage charging (Bulk, Absorption, Float)
Digital DisplayShows voltage, amperage, charge percentage, and error codes
Battery Type SelectionButtons for Standard, AGM, Gel, and Deep-Cycle batteries
Reconditioning ModeHelps recover sulfated batteries
Reverse Polarity ProtectionPrevents damage from incorrect clamp connection
Spark-Proof TechnologySafe connection to battery terminals
Float Mode MaintenanceMaintains battery at full charge without overcharging
Compact DesignLightweight with integrated cord storage

Safety Precautions

Read all instructions before use. For lead-acid batteries only.

  1. Work in a well-ventilated area. Batteries generate explosive gases.
  2. Wear safety glasses and gloves. Battery acid can cause severe burns.
  3. Do not charge frozen or damaged batteries.
  4. Ensure charger is unplugged from AC power before connecting/disconnecting clamps.
  5. Connect RED clamp to POSITIVE (+) terminal first, then BLACK to NEGATIVE (-).
  6. Keep charger dry and away from flammable materials.

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

Installation & Initial Setup

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

  1. Place charger on stable, non-flammable surface near battery.
  2. Plug AC power cord into grounded 120V outlet. Do not turn on yet.
  3. Select battery voltage (6V or 12V) using the VOLTAGE button.
  4. Select battery type (Standard, AGM, Gel, Deep-Cycle) using TYPE button.
  5. Connect clamps to battery terminals: RED to POSITIVE (+), BLACK to NEGATIVE (-) or vehicle chassis ground.
  6. Once securely connected, the display will illuminate and show battery status.

CAUTION! Never connect clamps to each other or allow them to touch metal surfaces other than intended terminals.

Specifications

Controls and Display

Front Panel: POWER button, VOLTAGE (6V/12V) button, TYPE (Battery Selection) button, MODE (Charge/Recondition) button, ENTER/CONFIRM button.

Display Indicators: Battery Voltage, Charge Current (Amps), Charge Percentage (%), Status Icons (Charging, Complete, Fault), Error Codes.

Charging Modes: AUTOMATIC (default) - charges then maintains; MANUAL - set charge rate; RECONDITION - for sulfated batteries. Press MODE to cycle through options, then ENTER to select.

Charging Procedures

For 12V Standard Automotive Battery (typical use):

  1. Ensure charger is unplugged from AC outlet.
  2. Set VOLTAGE to 12V. Set TYPE to STANDARD (or match your battery type).
  3. Connect clamps: RED to battery positive (+), BLACK to negative (-) or chassis ground.
  4. Plug charger into AC outlet. Display will light up and show battery voltage.
  5. Press POWER button to begin automatic charging sequence.
  6. Display will show charging progress (%, amps). When fully charged, display will show "FULL" and switch to Float Maintenance mode.
  7. To disconnect: Unplug AC cord first, then remove BLACK clamp, then RED clamp.

Tip: For deeply discharged batteries (<2V), charger may enter Recondition mode automatically or display an error. Refer to troubleshooting.

Battery Reconditioning Mode

Use for sulfated or deeply discharged batteries that won't hold a charge.

  1. Connect charger to battery following standard safety steps.
  2. Set correct voltage and battery type.
  3. Press MODE button until "RECONDITION" appears on display.
  4. Press ENTER to start. Process can take 8-24 hours.
  5. Charger will apply a controlled desulfation pulse, then attempt a full charge cycle.
  6. Monitor display. If battery cannot be recovered, "FAULT" or "BAD BATTERY" may appear.

WARNING! Reconditioning may not revive all batteries. Do not leave unattended for extended periods.

Maintenance & Storage

Unplug and clean after each use. Store in cool, dry place.

  1. Wipe casing with dry cloth. Do not use liquids or solvents.
  2. Inspect clamps and cords for damage before each use.
  3. Coil cords neatly using integrated storage hooks.
  4. Store in original box or protective case if available.

CAUTION! Do not expose to rain, snow, or excessive moisture. Do not store near heat sources.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device. Complies with Canadian ICES-003. UL listed. Copyright © Schumacher Electric Corporation. All trademarks are property of their respective owners. For technical support, visit www.schumacherelectric.com or call 1-800-621-5485.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Display blank/no powerAC outlet dead, cord not plugged inCheck outlet with another device; ensure AC cord fully inserted.
"REV POL" or reverse polarity errorClamps connected backwardsDisconnect immediately. Connect RED to positive (+), BLACK to negative (-).
"BAD BATTERY" or "FAULT"Battery voltage too low, damaged, or shortedCheck battery voltage with multimeter. Try Recondition mode. Replace battery if faulty.
Charger stops quickly/overheatsHigh ambient temperature, blocked ventsMove to cooler area; ensure vents are clear; allow to cool before restarting.
Not charging/maintainingLoose connections, corroded terminalsClean battery terminals; ensure clamps have solid metal-to-metal contact.
Display shows incorrect voltageBattery type setting wrong, poor connectionVerify battery type selection; disconnect and reconnect clamps securely.

Reset: Unplug from AC and battery for 2 minutes, then reconnect.

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

Schumacher SC1359 Battery Charger Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025