Schumacher Speed Charger XC6 Manual

The Schumacher Speed Charger XC6 is a fully automatic battery charger and maintainer designed for 6V and 12V lead-acid batteries, including standard, AGM, gel cell, and deep-cycle batteries. It features microprocessor-controlled charging, automatic voltage detection, multi-stage charging (bulk, absorption, float/maintenance), reverse hook-up protection, spark-proof technology, and a digital display showing voltage, charge status, and fault codes. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, 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: Digital display, Mode selection button, Battery clamps (red/black), AC power cord, Charging status LEDs.

Feature	Description
Microprocessor Control	Automatically selects optimal charge rate and mode
Automatic Voltage Detection	Detects 6V or 12V battery without manual setting
Multi-Stage Charging	Bulk, absorption, and float/maintenance stages
Reverse Polarity Protection	Prevents damage if clamps are connected incorrectly
Spark-Proof Technology	Safe connection to battery terminals
Digital Display	Shows voltage, charge percentage, and error codes
Battery Recondition Mode	Helps recover deeply discharged batteries
Float/Maintenance Mode	Maintains battery at full charge without overcharging
AGM/Gel Compatible	Safe for absorbed glass mat and gel cell batteries
Compact Design	Lightweight and portable for garage or workshop

Safety Instructions

Read all instructions before use. Charger contains electrical parts; risk of shock or fire.

Use in dry, well-ventilated area away from flammable materials.
Do not expose to rain or moisture.
Connect to battery before plugging into AC outlet.
Ensure correct polarity: RED to positive (+), BLACK to negative (-).
Do not charge frozen or damaged batteries.
Keep children and pets away during operation.

WARNING! Battery gases are explosive; avoid sparks or flames near battery. Wear eye protection.

First-Time Setup

Unpack charger and inspect for damage. Verify included parts: charger unit, battery clamps, AC power cord, user manual.

Prepare battery: Ensure battery is in well-ventilated area. Clean terminals if corroded.
Connect clamps: Attach RED clamp to positive (+) terminal, BLACK clamp to negative (-) terminal or vehicle chassis.
Plug in charger: Insert AC plug into 120V outlet. Charger will automatically detect battery voltage.
Select mode (if needed): Press MODE button to choose between 6V, 12V, or AGM/GEL settings (default is AUTO).
Begin charging: Charger will start automatically; digital display will show progress.

CAUTION! Do not disconnect clamps while charger is powered on. Always unplug AC cord first.

Specifications

Input Voltage: 120V AC, 60Hz.
Output Voltage: 6V/12V DC automatic selection.
Charge Rate: 6A normal charge, 2A maintenance, 1A for recondition mode.
Battery Compatibility: Lead-acid, AGM, gel cell, deep-cycle (up to 120Ah).
Display: Digital LCD showing voltage (0-16V), charge status (0-100%), and error codes.
Protections: Reverse polarity, short circuit, overheat, overcharge.
Dimensions: 7.5" x 4" x 2.5".
Weight: 2.2 lbs.
Operating Temperature: 32°F to 104°F (0°C to 40°C).
Warranty: 1-year limited warranty.

Controls and Indicators

Front Panel: Digital display, MODE button, Status LEDs (Charging, Maintenance, Fault).

Display Readings: Voltage (V), Charge percentage (%), Battery type icon, Error code (E1-E5).

MODE Button: Press to cycle through AUTO (default), 6V, 12V, AGM/GEL settings. LEDs: Green (Charging), Flashing Green (Maintenance), Red (Fault/Error). Charging Stages: Bulk (constant current), Absorption (constant voltage), Float (maintenance voltage).

Charging Procedure

For standard charging of discharged batteries.

Ensure battery is in safe, ventilated location.
Connect clamps: RED to positive, BLACK to negative or chassis ground.
Plug AC cord into outlet. Display will show detected voltage.
Charger begins automatically. Display shows charging progress (e.g., 75%).
When fully charged, charger switches to Maintenance Mode (flashing green LED).
To disconnect: Unplug AC cord, then remove BLACK clamp, then RED clamp.

Tip: For deeply discharged batteries (< 2V), charger may enter Recondition Mode automatically (display shows "REC").

Maintenance Mode

Float/maintenance mode keeps battery at optimal charge during storage.

Connect charger as normal.
Charger will automatically enter Maintenance Mode after full charge.
Green LED flashes slowly; display shows "FULL" or voltage (~13.2V for 12V).
Can be left connected indefinitely without overcharging.
Ideal for seasonal vehicles, boats, motorcycles.

Note: Maintenance mode output is 13.2V (12V) or 6.8V (6V) with pulsed current.

Error Codes & Diagnostics

Display shows error codes if fault is detected.

Code	Meaning	Action
E1	Reverse polarity	Check clamp connections; correct polarity
E2	Battery voltage too low (< 2V)	Try Recondition Mode; battery may be damaged
E3	Battery voltage too high (> 16V)	Disconnect; check battery for damage
E4	Overheat protection	Allow charger to cool; improve ventilation
E5	Short circuit or bad connection	Check clamps and cables; clean terminals

If error persists, disconnect and contact support.

Care & Storage

Unplug and disconnect before cleaning. Wipe with dry cloth; do not use liquids.

Storage: Store in dry location at room temperature. Coil cables neatly; avoid kinks.

CAUTION! Do not expose to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight for extended periods.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with limits for residential use. UL listed. Copyright © Schumacher Electric Corporation. For support, visit www.schumacherelectric.com or contact 1-800-621-5485.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Charger not turning on	No AC power / faulty outlet	Check outlet; try different circuit; ensure plug is secure
Display blank	No battery connection	Reconnect clamps securely; clean battery terminals
Charging stops quickly	Battery fully charged or damaged	Check battery voltage; try on known good battery
Charger gets hot	Normal during bulk charge	Ensure ventilation; if excessively hot, unplug and cool
Battery not holding charge	Old or sulfated battery	Try Recondition Mode; battery may need replacement
Error code displayed	See Error Codes section	Refer to code meaning and take corrective action

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

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