Vector Automobile Battery Charger VEC1098A User Manual

VEC1098A_Manual_082606 8/26/06 12:56 PM Page 12  
VEC1098A  
FIVE YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY PROGRAM  
This limited warranty program is the only one that applies to this product, and it sets forth all the  
responsibilities of Vector Products, Inc., regarding this product. There is no other warranty, other than those  
described herein. Any implied warranty of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose on this product  
is limited in duration to the duration of this warranty.  
This Vector Products, Inc. product is warranted, to the original purchaser only, to be free of defects in  
materials and workmanship for 5 years from the date of purchase without additional charge. The warranty  
does not extend to subsequent purchasers or users. Manufacturer will not be responsible for any amount of  
damage in excess of the retail purchase price of the product under any circumstances. Incidental and  
consequential damages are specifically excluded from coverage under this warranty.  
This product is not intended for commercial use. This warranty does not apply to damage to units from  
misuse or incorrect installation/connection. Misuse includes wiring or connecting to improper polarity  
power sources.  
RETURN/REPAIR POLICY: Defective products may be returned to manufacturer. Any defective product that  
is returned to manufacturer within 30 days of the date of purchase will be replaced free of charge. If such  
a product is returned more than 30 days but less than 5 years from the purchase date, manufacturer will  
repair the unit or, at its option, replace it, free of charge.  
Fully Automatic Electronic  
Smart Battery Charger  
50/30/15/4 Amp Charge Rates  
with 150 Amp Engine Start  
If the unit is repaired, new or reconditioned replacement parts may be used, at manufacturers option. A  
unit may be replaced with a new or reconditioned unit of the same or comparable design. The repaired or  
replaced unit will then be warranted under the terms of the remainder of the warranty period. The customer  
is responsible for the shipping charges on all returned items. During the warranty period, manufacturer will  
be responsible for the return shipping charges to the customer in the United States.  
LIMITATIONS: This warranty does not cover accessories, such as charging adapters, bulbs, fuses and  
batteries, damage or defects resulting from normal wear and tear (including chips, scratches, abrasions,  
discoloration or fading due to usage or exposure to sunlight), accidents, damage during shipping to our  
service facility, alterations, unauthorized use or repair, neglect, misuse, abuse, failure to follow instructions  
for care and maintenance, fire, flood and Acts of God.  
If your problem is not covered by this warranty, call our Technical Support Department toll free at (800)  
544-6986 for general repair information and charges if applicable.  
STATE LAW RIGHTS: This warranty gives you specific legal rights. Some states do not allow limitations on  
how long an implied warranty lasts or the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages,  
so the exclusions or limitations stated herein may not apply. This warranty gives the purchaser specific legal  
rights; other rights, which vary from state to state, may apply.  
TO REQUEST WARRANTY SERVICE FOR THIS PRODUCT: Contact Technical Support by telephone, fax or  
mail (see below). We suggest that you keep the original packaging in case you need to ship the unit. When  
returning a product, include your name, address, phone number, dated sales receipt (or copy) and a  
description of the reason for return and product serial number. After repairing or replacing the unit, we will  
make every effort to return it to you within four weeks.  
WARRANTY ACTIVATION: Please complete Warranty Activation Card and mail to Vector Products, Inc..  
Enter “VEC1098A” as Model and “50/30/15/4 Amp Smart Battery Charger” as Product Type. All Vector  
products must be registered within 30 days of purchase to activate this warranty. Mail the completed  
registration form, along with a copy of the original sales receipt, to:  
Black & Decker  
USERS MANUAL  
4409 W. Wanda, McAllen, TX 78503  
• TOLL FREE: (800) 544-6986 • FAX: (956) 630-0492 •  
& WARRANTY INFORMATION  
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION, SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS  
WARRANTY IS NON-TRANSFERABLE.  
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF INJURY, USER MUST READ AND UNDERSTAND  
THIS INSTRUCTIONAL MANUAL. THIS MANUAL CONTAINS IMPORTANT  
INFORMATION REGARDING THE OPERATION AND WARRANTY OF THIS  
PRODUCT. PLEASE RETAIN FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.  
BD082606  
4140 S.W. 30th Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33312  
Toll Free: (800) 544-6986  
© 2006 VECTOR PRODUCTS, INC.  
MADE IN CHINA  
 
VEC1098A_Manual_082606 8/26/06 12:56 PM Page iv  
5. For negative-grounded vehicle, connect POSITIVE (RED) clamp from battery charger to POSITIVE  
(POS, P, +) ungrounded post of battery. Connect NEGATIVE (BLACK) clamp to vehicle chassis or  
engine block away from battery. Do not connect clip to carburetor, fuel lines, or sheet-metal body  
parts. Connect to heavy gauge metal part of the frame or engine block.  
6. For positive-grounded vehicle, connect NEGATIVE (BLACK) clamp from battery charger to  
NEGATIVE (NEG, N, –) ungrounded post of battery. Connect POSITIVE (RED) clamp to vehicle  
chassis or engine block away from battery. Do not connect clip to carburetor, fuel lines or sheet-  
metal body parts. Connect to a heavy gauge metal part of the frame or engine block.  
TABLE OF CONTENTS  
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Controls and Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Operating Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Charge Rate Selection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Charging the Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Automatic Float Charging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Equalizing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Engine Start . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
1
2
3
5
5
5
6
6
7
7
8
9
9
7. When disconnecting charger, disconnect AC cord, remove clamp from vehicle chassis, and then  
remove clamp from battery terminal.  
8. Do not charge the battery while the engine is operating.  
9. See operating instructions for length of charge information.  
Follow these steps when the battery has been removed from a vehicle. A spark near  
the battery may cause an explosion. To reduce risk of a spark near the battery:  
1. Check polarity of battery posts. The POSITIVE post (marked POS,P, +) usually has a larger diameter  
than the NEGATIVE battery post (marked NEG, N, –).  
Recondition Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Alternator Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Approximate Charging Times . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Care and Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10  
2. Attach a 24-inch (minimum length) AWG#6 insulated battery cable to the NEGATIVE battery post  
(marked NEG, N, –).  
3. Connect the POSITIVE (RED) battery clamp to the POSITIVE battery post (marked POS, P, + or red).  
4. Stand as far back from the battery as possible, and do not face battery when making final  
connection.  
5. Carefully connect the NEGATIVE (BLACK) charger clamp to the free end of the battery cable  
connected to the NEGATIVE terminal.  
INTRODUCTION  
6. Set the charge rate to appropriate setting according to battery size.  
7. When disconnecting charger, always do so in reverse sequence of connecting procedure and break  
first connection while as far away from battery as practical.  
Thank you for selecting the VEC1098A 50/30/15/4 Amp Smart Battery  
Charger. With proper care and use, it will give you years of dependable service.  
This battery charger has a high charge rate of up to 50 amps, a low charge rate  
of 4 amps and 150 amps of engine starting power. It is designed for charging only  
12 volt lead-acid batteries — conventional automotive, maintenance-free, marine  
deep cycle and gel — used in cars, trucks, farm equipment, boats, RVs and SUVs,  
lawn mowers/garden tractors, motorcycles, personal watercraft, snowmobiles, ATVs  
and various applications.  
Note: A marine (boat) battery must be removed and charged on shore. To charge it  
on board requires equipment specifically designed for marine use. This unit is  
NOT designed for such use.  
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS  
Smart Battery Chargers feature 3-stage, high-efficiency charging technology and built-  
in microprocessor control that ensures fast, safe and complete charging of serviceable  
batteries.  
Charge Curve  
STAGE ONE  
BEEP  
BEEP  
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to the following two  
conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept  
any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.  
STAGE TWO  
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device,  
pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection  
against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can  
radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the  
instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no  
guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If equipment does cause  
harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the  
equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more  
of the following measures:  
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.  
• Increase the separation between equipment and receiver.  
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is  
connected.  
STAGE THREE  
OFF BEEP  
CHARGING  
COMPLETE  
Stage One — Rapid Start Charge at 50 amps delivers maximum charging  
amperage to “wake up” any serviceable 12 volt battery and allows for quick engine  
starting in just 1 minute (based on a midsize vehicle battery at 50% charge level).  
When battery reaches a maximum safe predetermined voltage, the charger will  
automatically signal a “beep” and move into Stage 2 of the charging process.  
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.  
1
 
VEC1098A_Manual_082606 8/26/06 12:56 PM Page 2  
Stage Two — Absorption Charge maintains the maximum possible charge at a  
constant, safe, predetermined voltage. During this phase, the charging voltage remains  
constant, while the actual charging current is reduced to allow for the maximum proper  
internal chemical energy transfer. At the end of Stage 2, the charger will automatically  
move into Stage 3 charge mode.  
Controls and Indicators  
CONTROL PANEL  
DIGITAL READOUT  
CIRCULATING PATTERN  
Stage Three — Top-Off Charge — voltage is automatically maintained and  
reduced to a predetermined level while current is adjusted for a safe, effective battery  
charge. At the conclusion of Stage 3, the unit will BEEP signaling the completion of  
the charging cycle.  
The Automatic Float Charge feature is ideal for maintaining a battery. It automatically  
tops off battery as needed to keep battery fully charged all the time.  
FUNCTION BUTTONS:  
Battery Type (Step 1) allows the user to select Wet, Gel or AGM type of battery  
for an efficient and safe charge. Most automotive batteries are Wet batteries. Refer  
to the battery manufacturer’s specifications for battery type.  
4/15/30/50 AMP (Charge Rate Selector) (Step 2) allows the user to select the  
charge rate based on battery size. This selection and the actual battery charge rate  
are monitored by the microprocessor. The charger will stop charging if the rate is too  
fast or too slow for the battery size or condition.  
150 AMP (Engine Start) places the charger in an engine start sequence. This  
button will not be activated unless the charger is in the 50 amp charge mode; set the  
4/15/30/50 AMP button to 50 amps first to activate this button.  
FEATURES  
• This unit has four charge rate settings, accessed by the 4/15/30/50 AMP button:  
a) 4 amps: smaller batteries, such as in lawn mowers, snowmobiles,  
motorcycles, etc.  
b) 15 amps: mid-sized batteries, such as in small cars  
c) 30 amps: automobiles and light trucks  
d) 50 amps: large truck batteries, banks of RV batteries  
• 150 amp engine start  
Battery Recond. is an automatic mode that, once started, continues for 24 hours  
and then stops. A series of electrical pulses breaks the crystalline form of lead sulfate  
to turn these chemicals into useful battery electrolytes. More than 24 hours may be  
needed to restore. Periodic reconditioning is recommended to maintain a battery's  
optimum performance. However, if 5 cycles does not improve battery performance,  
discontinue and recycle the battery.  
Alternator Check is a quick check that measures the battery voltage. This check is  
repeated at various electrical load levels and the tests allow the user to determine if  
the alternator can keep up with the loads. It can indicate whether alternator service  
may be required.  
• Automatic Temperature Compensation  
• Battery type selection  
• Digital diagnostics  
• Alternator voltage and battery voltage check  
• Digital display shows charge rate, operating mode, fault codes and FUL  
when charged  
• 1 minute engine start  
• 3 stage high-frequency switch mode automatic rapid charging  
• Spark resistant reverse polarity and short circuit protection for user  
• Built-in battery reconditioning (desulfate)  
• Equalization function  
• Lightweight, high-efficiency design  
• Cables and clamps self-stored  
INDICATOR:  
Large (.375”) 3-Character Digital Display in the upper left of the control panel  
indicates the various conditions and/or status codes:  
Status Codes are described in the following chart and on the back of charger.  
• Microprocessor control (Digital Smart Control)/High frequency power  
• Compensates for low AC from extension cord use  
2
3
 
VEC1098A_Manual_082606 8/26/06 12:56 PM Page 4  
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS  
AC POWER INDICATOR - When connected to an AC outlet, digital display shows circulating pattern to  
indicate power is on. Disconnect charger after use.  
Ensure that all installation and operating instructions and safety  
precautions are understood and carefully followed by anyone  
installing or using the charger. Follow the steps outlined in “Important  
Safety Instructions” at the front of this manual.  
FAULT CODES  
INTERNAL SHORTED CELL BATTERY - Cannot be charged. Have battery checked by certified auto service center.  
EXCESSIVE LOAD ON BATTERY WHILE CHARGING - Check load.  
F01  
F02  
F03  
F04  
BAD BATTERY CONNECTION - Check battery connection.  
Battery Voltage Selection  
Before proceeding with any operation, the user must select the voltage of battery on  
the Battery Voltage Selector Switch (see the Control Panel diagram on page 3).  
BATTERY VOLTAGE TOO LOW TO ACCEPT CHARGE - Have battery checked by certified auto service center.  
INTERNAL OPEN CELL - Have battery checked by certified auto service center.  
SULFATED CONDITION - Battery needs to be reconditioned. See manual.  
OVERTIME CONDITION - Battery will not accept a charge after 18 hours of continuous charging. Battery may have  
internal damage. Have battery checked by certified auto center.  
BATTERY CHARGE RATE IS SET TOO LOW - Set charger to higher charge rate. See manual.  
Charge Rate Selection  
After charger clamps are correctly connected, plug the charger into a 120 volt AC  
outlet and the charger will show a circulating pattern on the Digital Display, indicating  
power has been applied. Select the proper charge current rate based on battery size.  
Press the 4/15/30/50 AMP button and the charger will begin charging at 4 amps.  
Pressing the 4/15/30/50 AMP button again will advance the charge rate to 15  
amps, again to 30 amps, and again to 50 amps. Pressing the switch again will turn  
OFF the charger output and the display will show “000”.  
OVERHEATED CONDITION - Disconnect charger and allow to cool for 30 min., check for ample ventilation.  
F05  
F06  
F07  
REVERSE POLARITY  
ALTERNATOR OUTPUT IS OUT OF TYPICAL OPERATION RANGE  
OPERATION CODES  
BATTERY RECONDITIONING - (The letters DES will display for the first 3 seconds.)  
ALTERNATOR VOLTAGE CHECK  
CHARGER STANDBY  
BATTERY FULLY CHARGED  
000  
FUL  
Note: The only time the selected charge rate does not display at the full selected rate  
is when the battery is nearly full and charging at either step two or three.  
The display will show a reduced charge rate. To return to 4A, press the  
4/15/30/50 AMP button. When the battery is fully charged, “FUL” shows on the  
Digital Display.  
CONTROL PANEL LED INDICATORS:  
WET — lights when battery type selector is on WET battery type.  
GEL — lights when battery type selector is on GEL battery type.  
AGM — lights when battery type selector is on AGM battery type.  
WARNING  
If Digital Display shows “F02”, the connection to the battery terminals  
is bad. Follow the steps outlined in “Important Safety Instructions” at  
the front of this manual to disconnect, clean battery terminals, then  
reconnect.  
If Digital Display shows “F06”, the RED (POSITIVE) and BLACK  
(NEGATIVE) clamps are incorrectly connected to battery terminals.  
Follow the steps outlined in “Important Safety Instructions” at the  
front of this manual to disconnect, then reconnect in correct polarity.  
Float Charge — lights when automatic charge monitoring is active. This feature  
allows a battery to maintain its charge over long periods of non-use. If there is any  
loss of power to the charger once power is restored, charger will automatically return  
to the default settings. Battery selector type would be “GEL”.  
Battery Voltage — lights when battery voltage is displayed.  
Charging the Battery  
1. Press Battery Type selector until desired battery type LED lights.  
Alternator Good — lights when load or not load checks show the alternator is  
keeping up with the electrical load.  
Note: The default selection is “GEL” type battery.  
BUTTON (TO THE RIGHT OF LEDS):  
2. Press 4/15/30/50 AMP button to begin charging at the 4 amp rate; the unit  
sounds a beep and the charging current LED lights. The charger starts charging  
at 4 amp rate automatically if 4/15/30/50 AMP button is not pressed within  
3 minutes after applying AC power.  
Equalize — a recessed button used to start the equalization process.  
If the Display on the charger varies between “F03” and the amp rate, the battery  
is sulfated and the charger is trying to give it some charge. If after approximately  
2 hours the display just shows “F03”, then the battery will not charge.  
Charger occasionally sounds a beep and displays “0.0” during self-test or  
charging stage changes.  
3. Pressing the 4/15/30/50 AMP button again advances charging rate to 15  
amps, pressing once more advances charging rate to 30 amps, and again to 50  
amps. (Pressing the button again will turn OFF the charger output and the Display  
will show “000”.) This selection and actual battery charge rate are monitored by  
4
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4. Remove battery from vehicle. MAKE SURE THAT THE BATTERY HAS GOOD  
VENTILATION. The process causes the release of hydrogen and oxygen. An  
accumulation of these gases presents a real danger of explosion.  
the microprocessor, and the unit will stop charging if the selected rate is too fast  
or too slow for battery size or condition.  
As the battery nears full charge, the unit’s output will automatically drop to a  
lower charge rate.  
Pressing the 4/15/30/50 AMP button repeatedly advances to standby mode;  
the unit sounds a beep, displays “000” and stops charging.  
5. Open the battery cap, if removable.  
6. Fill the battery with distilled water according to the manufacturer’s instructions.  
Since batteries may rapidly bubble while being charged, remember to refill (only  
with distilled water) after the equalization process is complete and the voltage is  
back to normal.  
4. The battery charger displays the charge current. To view the battery voltage,  
press BATTERY VOLTAGE button. The charger will sound a beep and display the  
battery voltage for 3 seconds, then returns to displaying the charge current.  
7. Follow the steps in the “Charging the Battery” section on page 5 of this manual.  
8. Push the Battery Type Selector Switch until “WET” is displayed. (This mode will  
5. The display shows “FUL” when the battery is fully charged.  
only work if a WET battery is selected.)  
6. Follow the steps outlined in “Important Safety Instructions” at the front of this  
9. Choose the correct charge rate and start charging. You can check the battery  
voltage by pushing the Battery Voltage button.  
10. Push the Equalize button at any time and the battery will automatically begin to  
equalize in 4 amp limited current. Note that in order to push the recessed button  
you will need a small pin or ballpoint pen.  
manual to disconnect.  
Automatic Float Charging  
Automatic Float Charging is ideal for maintaining a fully charged battery.  
1. Keep the AC power and battery connected after battery is fully charged.  
2. The charger monitors the battery and tops it off as needed.  
11. Every hour, the temperature should be checked by touching the battery. If the  
battery is hot to the touch, stop the charging and allow the battery to cool.  
3. The Float Charge indicator lights; the display shows charge current when topping  
12. The voltage rises, but does not go over 15.3v to 16.2v (2.55-2.7v per cell).  
13. The “WET” LED flashes while the charger is in equalize mode.  
14. The Digital Display will show “FUL” when the equalization process is complete.  
off the battery and returns to “FUL” when completed.  
4. To view battery voltage, press the Battery Voltage button.  
Note: Charging can be terminated by repeatedly pressing the Charge Rate Selector  
button until the circulating pattern appears on the display.  
Engine Start  
After AC power interruption, charging restarts at 4 amp rate automatically.  
The Engine Start function can supply 150 amps for engine starting.  
WARNING  
1. Set the 4/15/30/50 AMP button to 50 amp mode and immediately press the  
If battery size is not known, charge at the 4 amp rate. DO NOT  
overcharge batteries.  
150A button switch to activate the Engine Start mode.  
2. The Digital Display will countdown from “999” to “000”.  
3. When the “000” count is reached and begins flashing on the Display, the vehicle  
Equalizing  
is ready to start.  
Equalizing is the process by which the fluid in each of a battery’s cells is equalized.  
This process takes place after charging is complete.  
4. Crank the engine using manufacturer’s guidelines, typically in 3 to 5 second  
bursts. The high current engine starting function requires a resting/cooling period  
between tries. The charger will switch back to regular charge mode after  
5 seconds and will not allow operation in this mode for 4 minutes. Wait 4 to 5  
minutes before a second attempt at starting the engine, if needed.  
5. During the rest period, the battery is charging at 50 amps. After engine starts,  
follow the steps outlined in “Important Safety Instructions” at the front of this  
manual to disconnect.  
WARNINGS  
• NEVER TRY TO EQUALIZE A GEL OR AGM CELL. THE RESULTING  
EXPLOSION COULD CAUSE PROPERTY DAMAGE, SERIOUS INJURY  
AND/OR DEATH.  
• Remove or disconnect the vehicles battery when equalizing.  
Recondition Mode  
The frequency which the equalization process needs to be run depends on the use of  
the battery. The more the battery is used, the more undercharged it becomes; thus the  
more frequently the battery should be equalized.  
Whenever a lead-acid battery begins to discharge, lead sulfate, an insulator, begins  
to build up on the battery’s internal plates. This reduces the ability of the battery to  
hold a full charge. When that battery has an immediate charge, most of the lead  
sulfate is dissolved and the plates are free of this insulation. If a battery remains in a  
discharged condition over a longer period of time, the lead sulfate changes to a hard  
crystalline form, making a full charge difficult to achieve. Reconditioning may “save”  
a sulfated battery.  
1. Do not use this mode on sealed or valve regulated batteries. This mode is only  
meant for wet (unsealed/vented) batteries.  
2. Make sure there are no flammable sources near the recharging site.  
3. Wear safety glasses, gloves and protective clothing.  
BATTERY RECONDITION MODE should only be used with 10 amp hour (Ah) or  
larger capacity lead-acid batteries. Charge the battery to be treated for 20 minutes,  
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VEC1098A_Manual_082606 8/26/06 12:56 PM Page 8  
before using RECONDITION Mode. Observe the Digital Display for any codes. This  
initial charge will check the battery for shorted cells (F01), open cells (F03) or battery  
too low to accept a charge (F02), and to ensure the battery can take a charge. If  
code (F03) is displayed, change to the BATTERY RECONDITION MODE.  
APPROXIMATE CHARGING TIMES  
The 50/30/15/4 Amp Smart Battery Charger will automatically adjust the  
charge rate as the battery becomes charged and stop when the battery is fully  
charged. Deep cycle batteries may require longer charging time.  
For estimates of the time it takes to charge a 12 volt battery, refer to the following  
table.  
Remove or disconnect the vehicle’s battery when reconditioning.  
1. Make sure the charger is in initiation state with a circulating pattern on the  
display or in charge OFF mode with “000” on the display. If not, press  
4/15/30/50 AMP button repeatedly until “000” shows on the display.  
Percent of charge  
in battery  
75%  
3.5 HRS  
1 HR  
50%  
25%  
10.5 HRS  
2.8 HRS  
1.4 HRS  
NR*  
0%  
2. Press the Battery Recondition button to start the process.  
at 4 amp rate  
at 15 amp rate  
at 30 amp rate  
at 50 amp rate  
7 HRS  
2 HRS  
1 HR  
NR*  
14 HRS  
3.7 HRS  
1.9 HRS  
NR*  
3. DES appears on the display for 3 seconds, then it changes to three horizontal  
moving bars.  
4. The process takes 24 hours and stops automatically. The display shows “000”  
when complete.  
NR*  
NR*  
Alternator Check  
Part 1  
* Not recommended for charging batteries less than 80 Ah  
The times shown in the table above are approximate and refer to a 50 Ah automotive  
battery. For example, a 50 Ah (12 volt) battery is discharged (50%). How long  
should it be charged at the 15 amp rate? See the chart above under “50%” and “at  
15 amp rate.”  
In most cases, battery charging times will vary depending on the size, age and  
condition of the battery. Smaller batteries should be charged at a lower rate (4 amps)  
and an extra hour added to charge time.  
No Load  
(Turn OFF all vehicle’s accessories): The battery must be fully charged  
before testing the alternator. Run the engine long enough to achieve  
normal idle speed and verify there is a no-load voltage.  
1. Press Alternator Check to start the test.  
2. Alternator Good LED will light to indicate the alternator is good, or  
F07 will display to indicate the alternator is out of typical operation  
voltage.  
3. Press Alternator Check again to stop the test.  
CARE AND MAINTENANCE  
With proper care and minimal maintenance, the VEC1098A 50/30/15/4 Amp  
Smart Battery Charger will provide years of dependable service. For maximum  
performance, manufacturer recommends:  
• After each use, clean the battery charger clamps — be sure to remove any battery  
fluid that will cause corrosion of the copper clamps.  
Part 2  
Under Load (Accessories on): Next, load the alternator by turning on as many  
accessories as possible (except for A/C and DEFROST)  
1. Press Alternator Check to start the test.  
2. Alternator Good LED will light to indicate the alternator is good, or  
F07 will display to indicate the alternator is out of typical voltage  
range.  
• Clean the outside case of the charger with a soft cloth and, if necessary, mild soap  
solution.  
3. Press Alternator Check again to stop the test.  
• Do not allow liquid to enter the charger. Do not operate when charger is wet.  
• Keep the charger cords loosely coiled during storage to prevent damage to the  
cords.  
If the first alternator check indicates a good alternator and the second indicates the  
alternator is bad, the problem could stem from: loose fan belts, an intermittent diode  
failure or possibly bad connections between the battery and alternator and/or ground.  
WARNINGS  
Notes: F07 may display because someone has added a number of accessory loads  
on the charging system, thereby increasing current demand from the  
alternator. MAKE SURE THAT THE ALTERNATOR IS RATED TO SUPPORT THE  
APPLICATION.  
• Do not use charger if cords or clamps have been damaged in any  
way — call Technical Support toll-free at (800) 544-6986.  
• There are no user-serviceable parts in this unit.  
This check may not be accurate for every make, manufacturer and model of  
vehicle.  
• Do not open the unit. In the event of malfunction, it must be returned  
to manufacturer for professional testing and repair. OPENING THE  
UNIT WILL VOID THE MANUFACTURER’S WARRANTY.  
Check only 12 volt systems.  
8
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VEC1098A_Manual_082606 8/26/06 12:56 PM Page 10  
TROUBLESHOOTING  
Display Indications/Common Problems/Possible Solutions  
No Functions  
• Check and make sure the charger is plugged into a live 110/120 volt AC outlet.  
• Follow the steps outlined in the Operating Instructions section.  
F01 — Internal Shorted Cell Battery  
If the battery being charged has an internal shorted cell, the F01 will show. We  
recommend taking your battery to a certified automotive service center for evaluation.  
F02 — Bad Battery Connection or Battery Voltage Too Low to Accept  
Charge  
When F02 appears, the most common cause is poor connection to battery.  
• Follow the steps outlined in “Important Safety Instructions” at the front of this manual  
to disconnect AC cord and clamps, clean battery terminal and reconnect.  
• If the situation persists, we recommend taking your battery to a certified automotive  
service center for evaluation.  
F03 — Sulfate or Unchargeable Battery  
F03 appears when the battery is highly sulfated and cannot accept normal charge  
current.  
• Follow the steps in “Recondition Mode” to recondition the battery.  
• Follow the steps in “Equalizing” to equalize the battery.  
• If the situation persists after reconditioning and equalizing, we recommend taking  
your battery to a certified automotive service center for evaluation.  
F04 — Overtime Condition  
F04 appears when charging time exceeds 18 hours.  
You may be using a charge current rate too low for a large battery. Select higher  
charge rate to charge the battery.  
F05 — Overheated Condition  
The ventilation grill that prevents the air from flowing in and out of the charger may  
be blocked.  
• Follow the steps outlined in “Important Safety Instructions” at the front of this manual  
to disconnect AC cord and clamps, allow the unit to cool for 30 minutes and  
reconnect.  
• Make sure there is ample ventilation before resuming operation.  
F06 — Reverse Polarity  
The connections to the battery’s POSITIVE and NEGATIVE terminals are incorrect.  
Follow the steps outlined in “Important Safety Instructions” at the front of this manual  
to disconnect AC cord and clamps and reconnect to battery with correct polarity.  
F07 — Alternator Voltage  
Alternator output voltage is out of typical operation range.  
Charging a Very Cold Battery  
If the battery to be charged is very cold (in temperatures below freezing — 0°C/  
32°F), it cannot accept a high rate of charge. The initial charge rate will be low. The  
charge rate will increase as the battery warms. Never attempt to charge a frozen  
battery.  
10  
 

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