MAX CHARGE MC-612-DUAL
MULTI-STAGE VOLTAGE REGULATOR
WITH DUAL FIELD OUTPUT
INSTALLATION AND OPERATION MANUAL
BALLARD COMMERCIAL INDUSTRIES, INC.
18930 59TH AVE., NE, ARLINGTON, WA 98223
ON THE INTERNET: WWW.BALMAR.NET
© COPYRIGHT 2009, REVISED 8-23-2011
Safety Considerations
1. Always disconnect your battery
banks and ensure that switches
are “OFF” prior to installing your
regulator.
2. Remove loose-fitting clothing or
jewelry, which could become en-
tangled in your motor or other ma-
chinery prior to installing regulator.
3. Wear ANSI-approved safety eye-
wear and protective gear.
4. DO NOT attempt to modify the reg-
ulator. Modifications could result in
damage to your charging system,
and will void your warranty.
5. Do not attempt installation if you
are tired or fatigued.
6. Ensure that the engine has cooled
before initiating installation.
7. Do not attempt regulator installa-
tion while using alcohol or medi-
cation that could impair your judg-
ment or reaction time.
8. Always use the right tool for the
job. Improper tool use may dam-
age regulator or your vessel, and
could result in personal injury.
9. Take time to read the manual.
Equipment damage and possible
injuries may result from an incom-
plete understanding of the installa-
tion and operation of the MC-612
regulator. If you are unfamiliar with
marine electrical systems, consult
with a licensed marine electrician.
Introduction
The Balmar Max Charge MC-612-DUAL is designed for use
in single engine / dual alternator applications where both
alternators are being used to charge the same large battery
bank.
The MC-612-DUAL provides two field output connectors, two power
input connectors and two system ground connections, making it pos-
sible to use two standard wiring harnesses when connecting to two
alternators.
The MC-612-DUAL features selectable preset programs for standard
flooded, deep cycle flooded, Optima, gel, and AGM batteries, as well
as a universal factory program for all battery types and a special pro-
gram for halogen systems. In addition, the MC-612-DUAL offers a
broad range of advanced programming features described later in this
manual.
When used in conjunction with optional alternator and battery tempera-
ture sensors, the MC-612-DUAL has the ability to monitor temperatures
and respond by increasing or decreasing voltage output to adapt to
conditions. By selecting the setting that best suits the application, the
user can provide sensing at two alternators and one battery bank or
one alternator and two battery banks. To take the best advantage of
the MC-612-DUAL and its features, please take the time to read this
manual.
Introduction ...........................1
Safety Considerations..........1
Regulator Installation ...........2
Unpacking Box .....................2
Locate/Mount Regulator ......2
Basic Wiring Installation ......2
Regulator Terminal Layout ..3
Installation By Wire ...........4-6
Initial Start Up .......................6
Regulator Operation .............7
Regulator Display Modes.....8
Using Magnetic Tool .............9
Regulator Programming ......9
Basic Programming..............9
Adjust For Battery Type .......9
Belt Load Manager .............10
Toggle #2 ALT/BAT Sense ..10
Advanced Programming .... 11
Unlock Adv. Programming . 11
Adjust Adv. Programs ......11-12
Default Program Settings ..12
Add’l. Regulator Features ..13
Troubleshooting ............13-15
System Wiring Diagram .....16
Warranty ..............................16
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