ARS
III
This multi-stage, (3 step) regulator, is advantageous to users of larger banks of deep cycle lead acid or gel bat-
teries which have been discharged to 50% and are being recharged to 85% capacity. This regulator also re-
sponds well when large D.C. loads are applied.
1. When the key switch is turned on, or after engine is started with oil pressure activated switches, the regulator
waits for about 1 min. before activating. This gives the engine a chance to develop oil pressure and warm up a
bit before the load of the alternator is applied. You will hear the ‘whine’ of the alternator and the engine ‘load up
a bit’” when the alternator comes on line. The
A
(green) L.E.D. will light when initial (float reference) voltage is
reached. This is factory set at 13.8 volts.
2. When the upper target voltage of 14.1 (factory setting for Gels) is sensed by the red wire, the
B
(green) L.E.
D. will light. Flickering is normal, the voltage will be held constant, and the batteries which may not have
reached max voltage will receive most of the current.
3. The absorption timer will start at this point, and if no large DC loads are
placed on the system that bring the sensing voltage below the upper target voltage, about two hours later the
C
(yellow ) L.E.D. will come on, indicating the regulator has latched onto the ‘float’ voltage of 13.8V. This timer can
be adjusted from .5 to 5 hrs. The batteries must remain at the upper target voltage for the set timed period for
this to occur. Once in float mode, the voltage will be limited to 13.8V ‘float’ (or where you set it) until power to
the brown key switch is removed. Factory pre set is 2 hours.
4 .
ARS
IlI
ADJUSTMENTS: The regulator is factory
calibrated for Gel batteries
.
A lower float voltage may be recommended for flooded (non Gel) batteries. Con-
sult your battery supplier for your correct maximum and float voltage setting. If you feel you should adjust the
output voltage, follow the procedure below.
Identify the correct pot. Float voltage is (#1) left pot, max (bulk) voltage is (#2) center pot, and absorption time
( .5 to 5 hrs.) is the (#3) right pot.
There is a dab of protective coating over the screwdriver slot. Remove this (it’s easy to scrape off with a small
knife) and using a small screwdriver, turn slowly clockwise to increase or counterclockwise to decrease voltage
or time. A small dab of TV Corna Dope or clear silicone can be applied when finished to provide protection
against moisture at the pot. Do not turn past stops.
a) Start engine, turning off all unnecessary electrical equipment.
b) Apply a digital voltmeter to the battery terminals.
c) Be sure the YELLOW light (C) on the ARS III is off.
d) Turn the center pot #2 clockwise to increase upper target voltage. Wait several minutes for the voltage to
rise and for the center GREEN (B) light to turn on. This adjusts the absorption voltage and should be done with
batteries near a full charge.
Diagnostic LEDs
When lit, the following circuits are operational:
Green - Lights when float setting is first
reached during ascent to upper
target (Bulk) voltage.
2nd Green - Indicates Bulk Voltage Achieved
Yellow - Indicates end of Absorption Time.
Indicates that regulator has settled
to 3rd stage Float Mode.
Dimensions: 4”L x 3.25”W x 1.5”H
