Schumacher SC1360 User Manual

The Schumacher SC1360 is a fully automatic battery charger and maintainer designed for 12V lead-acid batteries, including standard, AGM, and gel cell types. It features microprocessor-controlled charging, multiple charging modes (including a 6V/12V selectable option for the SC1360 model), float mode monitoring, reverse hook-up protection, and spark-proof technology. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting to Battery 7. Charging Process 8. Maintenance Mode 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Microprocessor control unit, LED status indicators, Battery clamps (red/black), AC power cord, Mode selection switch.

Feature	Description
Microprocessor Control	Automatically adjusts charge rate and switches to float/maintain
LED Indicators	Shows charging, complete, fault, and power status
Battery Clamps	Heavy-duty, spark-proof clamps with reverse protection
AC Power Cord	Standard 3-prong plug for 120V AC outlet
Mode Selection	Switch for 6V/12V battery selection (SC1360 model)
Float Mode Monitor	Maintains optimal battery voltage after full charge
Reverse Hook-up Protection	Prevents damage if clamps are connected incorrectly
Multi-Battery Support	Charges standard, AGM, and gel cell batteries
Fully Automatic	No manual adjustment needed after connection
Compact Design	Portable unit for garage, workshop, or storage

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable, dry, non-flammable surface.

Select Location: Ensure area is well-ventilated, away from sparks and flames.
AC Power: Plug charger into grounded 120V AC outlet.
Battery Preparation: Remove battery caps (if applicable) to vent gases. Clean terminals.
Voltage Selection: Set mode switch to correct voltage (6V or 12V) for your battery.

WARNING! Risk of explosive gases. Work in well-ventilated area. Wear eye protection. Keep sparks and flames away from battery.

First-Time Setup

Power on charger; observe LED indicators.

Connect Clamps: FIRST connect red clamp to battery positive (+) terminal. THEN connect black clamp to battery negative (-) terminal or vehicle chassis ground.
Check Polarity: Ensure correct connections to trigger reverse protection.
Monitor LEDs: Charging LED will illuminate. Process is automatic.
Completion: When full charge is reached, charger switches to float/maintain mode; Complete LED illuminates.

CAUTION! Always connect clamps in correct order (positive first, then negative). Disconnect in reverse order when finished.

Specifications

Model: SC1360
Input Voltage: 120V AC, 60Hz
Output Voltage: Selectable 6V DC / 12V DC
Charge Rate: Fully automatic, up to 1.5A (maintains up to 750mA)
Battery Compatibility: 12V lead-acid (standard, AGM, gel cell); 6V lead-acid (selectable)
Protection Features: Reverse polarity, spark-proof, short-circuit, overcharge
Indicators: LED for Power, Charging, Complete, Fault
Operating Temperature: 32°F to 104°F (0°C to 40°C)
Dimensions: Compact portable unit (approx. 7" x 3" x 2")
Warranty: Limited 1-year warranty

Controls and Settings

Primary control is the Voltage Selection Switch (6V/12V). LED indicators provide status.

LED Indicators: POWER (green) - AC power connected; CHARGING (red) - Actively charging; COMPLETE (green) - Battery fully charged/maintaining; FAULT (red) - Error detected (reverse connection, bad battery).

Operation is fully automatic after correct connection and voltage selection. No user adjustment of charge rate or timing is required.

Connecting to Battery

For vehicle battery or standalone battery.

Ensure charger is unplugged from AC outlet and power switch is off.
Set voltage switch to match battery voltage (6V or 12V).
Connect red clamp to battery positive (+) terminal.
Connect black clamp to battery negative (-) terminal or clean, unpainted metal on vehicle chassis.
Plug charger into AC outlet. POWER LED should illuminate.

Tip: For best results, charge battery at room temperature. A very cold battery may charge slowly.

Charging Process

Automatic multi-stage charging (bulk, absorption, float).

Initiation: After correct connection, CHARGING LED lights (solid red).
Bulk Charge: Delivers maximum current to raise battery voltage.
Absorption Charge: Voltage held constant, current tapers as battery nears full charge.
Float/Maintenance: Charger switches to lower voltage to maintain full charge without overcharging. COMPLETE LED lights (green), CHARGING LED turns off.
Disconnect: Unplug AC cord first, then remove black clamp, then red clamp.

WARNING! Do not disconnect clamps while charger is powered on and actively charging. Always follow disconnect sequence.

Maintenance Mode

After full charge, charger automatically enters float/maintenance mode. It monitors battery voltage and provides a small trickle charge as needed to counteract self-discharge. This mode is safe for extended periods (weeks or months) to keep battery ready for use. COMPLETE LED remains lit green during maintenance.

Care & Cleaning

Unplug and disconnect from battery before cleaning. Wipe exterior with dry cloth. Keep ventilation openings clean and free of debris. Store in a cool, dry place.

CAUTION! Do not use liquids or aerosols. Do not immerse charger in water. Do not open casing; no user-serviceable parts inside.

Regulatory Information

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

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No LED lights when plugged in	No AC power / faulty outlet	Check outlet with another device. Ensure plug is fully inserted.
FAULT LED illuminated	Reverse connection / bad battery	Disconnect and reconnect clamps in correct order. Test battery voltage (below 2V may be unrecoverable).
CHARGING LED blinks or does not come on	Poor connection / sulfated battery	Clean battery terminals and clamp jaws. Ensure solid connection. For deeply discharged battery, try recovery mode (consult manual).
Battery does not hold charge	Old or defective battery	Battery may be at end of life. Have battery tested professionally.
Charger seems hot	Normal during high charge phase / ventilation blocked	Ensure charger is on a hard, flat surface with vents clear. Some warmth is normal. If excessively hot, unplug and allow to cool.

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

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