Schumacher SJ1331 User Manual

The Schumacher SJ1331 is a 13-amp, 1.25-amp 12V/2V fully automatic battery charger and maintainer. It features microprocessor-controlled charging, multi-stage charging (bulk, absorption, float), reverse hook-up protection, spark-proof technology, and compatibility with standard, AGM, gel, and deep-cycle batteries. 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, AC power cord, Mode selection buttons.

Feature	Description
Microprocessor Control	Automatically adjusts charge rate for optimal battery health
Multi-Stage Charging	Bulk, absorption, and float stages for complete charging
Battery Type Selection	Supports Standard, AGM, Gel, and Deep-Cycle batteries
Reverse Polarity Protection	Prevents damage from incorrect cable connections
Spark-Proof Technology	Safe connection to battery terminals
LED Status Indicators	Shows charging status and fault conditions
Fully Automatic Operation	Once connected, charges and maintains automatically
Compact Design	Lightweight and portable for easy storage
Maintenance Mode	Float mode maintains battery at full charge indefinitely
Overcharge Protection	Prevents battery damage from overcharging

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable, dry surface away from flammable materials.

Select location: Choose well-ventilated area away from battery during charging.
Prepare battery: Ensure battery is in well-ventilated area. Clean terminals if necessary.
Connect AC power: Plug charger into standard 120V AC outlet.
Select battery type: Use MODE button to select appropriate battery type.

WARNING! Keep charger dry and away from rain or moisture. Do not cover charger during operation.

First-Time Setup

Connect charger to battery following proper sequence.

Power off: Ensure charger is unplugged from AC outlet.
Connect clamps: Attach RED clamp to POSITIVE (+) battery terminal first.
Connect black clamp: Attach BLACK clamp to NEGATIVE (-) battery terminal or vehicle chassis.
Plug in charger: Connect to AC outlet. Charger will begin automatic diagnosis.
Select mode: Press MODE button to match your battery type (flashing LED indicates selection).

CAUTION! Always connect positive clamp first, negative last. Reverse when disconnecting.

Specifications

Input Voltage: 120V AC, 60Hz.
Output Voltage: 12V DC / 2V DC selectable.
Charge Rate: 13 amps (max), 1.25 amp maintain rate.
Battery Compatibility: Standard, AGM, Gel, Deep-Cycle.
Charging Stages: 3-stage (Bulk, Absorption, Float).
Protection Features: Reverse polarity, spark-proof, overcharge protection.
Indicators: LED status lights (Power, Charging, Maintain, Fault).
Cable Length: 6-foot output cables with clamps.
Dimensions: Compact design for easy storage.
Operating Temperature: 32°F to 104°F (0°C to 40°C).

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER LED, CHARGING LED, MAINTAIN LED, FAULT LED, MODE selection button.

LED Indicators: POWER (green) - AC power connected; CHARGING (red) - Bulk/absorption stage; MAINTAIN (green) - Float/maintenance mode; FAULT (red) - Error condition.

Mode Selection: Press MODE button to cycle through battery types. LED flashes corresponding to selection: 1 flash - Standard, 2 flashes - AGM, 3 flashes - Gel, 4 flashes - Deep-Cycle.

Connecting to Battery

Proper connection sequence is critical for safety.

Ensure charger is unplugged from AC outlet.
Connect RED clamp to POSITIVE (+) battery terminal.
Connect BLACK clamp to NEGATIVE (-) battery terminal or clean, unpainted metal on vehicle chassis.
Plug charger into AC outlet.
Charger will automatically begin diagnosis and charging.

Tip: For maintenance charging on stored vehicles, connect directly to battery terminals.

Charging Process

Automatic multi-stage charging for optimal battery health.

Diagnosis: Charger tests battery condition upon connection.
Bulk Stage: Delivers maximum current to charge battery quickly (RED LED solid).
Absorption Stage: Tapers current as battery reaches full charge (RED LED solid).
Float/Maintenance: Maintains battery at full charge indefinitely (GREEN LED solid).
Completion: Charger automatically switches to maintenance mode when battery is fully charged.

WARNING! Do not disconnect charger during bulk charging stage. Allow process to complete automatically.

Maintenance Mode

Float charging maintains battery at optimal charge level for extended periods.

When GREEN maintain LED is solid, charger is in float mode. This mode:

Maintains battery at full charge indefinitely
Prevents sulfation during storage
Uses minimal power (1.25 amps)
Is safe for all battery types when correct mode is selected

Ideal for seasonal vehicles, boats, RVs, and equipment in storage.

Care & Cleaning

Unplug and disconnect from battery before cleaning. Use dry cloth only; no liquids or solvents.

Store in dry location. Keep clamps clean and free of corrosion. Inspect cables regularly for damage.

CAUTION! Never immerse charger in water or use in wet conditions. Keep ventilation openings clear.

Regulatory Information

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

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
FAULT LED flashing	Reverse connection	Disconnect and reconnect with correct polarity (red to +, black to -).
No LED lights	No AC power	Check outlet; ensure charger is plugged in; try different outlet.
CHARGING LED not on	Battery fully charged	Check if MAINTAIN LED is on (normal); if not, battery may be defective.
Charger won't start	Battery voltage too low	Try manual start mode (if available); battery may need replacement.
Spark when connecting	Charger plugged in	Always connect clamps before plugging into AC outlet.
Battery gets hot	Overcharging	Disconnect immediately; check battery type setting; battery may be defective.

Reset: Unplug from AC, disconnect clamps, wait 30 seconds, then reconnect properly.

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