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Introduction

Introduction

The Balmar Max Charge MC-618

 is the latest generation of smart, multi-stage Balmar Max Charge voltage regulators. 

Designed to provide precise voltage control for Balmar’s high-output 12-volt alternators and other externally regulated P-type 

alternators, the  MC-618 features user selectable programs for the following battery types: Deep cycle flooded, standard 

flooded, gel, AGM, spiral wound AGM, Carbon Foam and LiFePO

batteries. The regulator also features a universal default 

program that’s designed for use in vessels utilizing voltage sensitive halogen equipment.
In addition to the user selectable preset programs, the MC-618 features a wealth of advanced programming modes which make 

it possible to tailor charging to a wide variety of environments.

When used in conjunction with optional MC-TS-A and 

MC-TS-B alternator and battery temperature sensors, the MC-618 fea-

tures the ability to monitor and respond to a range of ambient temperature conditions, including reduction or discontinuation of 

charging voltages, should a catastrophic over-temperature condition occur at the alternator or the batteries. It can also protect 

Lithium batteries from being charged when the temperature falls below freezing.

 

When connected to an SG200 Battery monitor via SmartLink

, The following is available from the SG200’s Color Display:

1. 

MC-618 real-time operating data

2. 

Battery Type selection (Basic Programming)

3. 

Adjustment of the Maximum Field % (Belt Load Manager)

When a SG2-0300 Bluetooth Gateway is used in conjunction with the SG200 + MC-618 even more features are unlocked via 

the Balmar App:

1. 

Real-time monitoring of the MC-618 performance

2. 

Full Basic and Advanced Programming from a phone or tablet

3. 

Save and Load program settings

 

Safety Considerations

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 entangled in your motor or other machinery prior to installing 

regulator.

3. 

Wear ANSI-approved safety eye-wear 

and protective gear.

4. 

DO NOT attempt to modify the regulator. 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 installation 

while using alcohol or medication that could impair your judgment or reaction time.

8. 

Always use the right tool for the 

job. Improper tool use may damage 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 incomplete 

understanding of the installation and operation of the MC-618 regulator. If you are unfamiliar with electrical 

systems, consult with a licensed marine or mobile electrician.

Summary of Contents for Max Charge MC-618

Page 1: ...1 MC 618 Alternator Regulator Installation Operation Manual SUP 0283 REV C 87 C Open 26 C...

Page 2: ...ng For Battery Type 14 LFP LiFePO4 Recommendations 15 Regulator Programming Flow Chart More details can be found on pages 9 14 16 Programming The Max Field Percentage Belt Load Manager 17 Programming...

Page 3: ...Display 1 MC 618 real time operating data 2 Battery Type selection Basic Programming 3 Adjustment of the Maximum Field Belt Load Manager When a SG2 0300 Bluetooth Gateway is used in conjunction with t...

Page 4: ...ance from alternator distance from inverters transmitters and other sources of RF noise convenient access and readability of the display The regulator wiring harness is 54 inches long providing a thre...

Page 5: ...5 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 1 2 3 4 Ignition Connector 1 Connector 2 17 16 15 14 12 13 10 11 9 7 6 5 8 4 3 2 1 External Regulator Plug Positive Battery Sense Required for Internal Regulator Only Isolat...

Page 6: ...nal Install Alternator Temperature Sensor The optional Alternator Temperature Sensors MC TS A or MC TS A80 allows your MC 618 voltage regulator to monitor your alternator temperatures and limit output...

Page 7: ...ne the number of poles in the alternator in order to properly adjust your tachometer Most Balmar alternators feature 12 pole rotors and stators though in some cases the pole count may be 14 or 16 See...

Page 8: ...egulator without a harness The two fast on connectors shown here to the left are connected to pin 10 and 11 on the regulator Of the two Deutsch style connectors on the right side only one is used in a...

Page 9: ...tch it may be necessary to start the engine before applying test 2 If the engine must be run to accomplish test 2 be sure that the alternator is properly cabled on both positive and negative sides to...

Page 10: ...iod specified by the battery program selected Factory set values are 13 9 volts for 0 3 hours 18 minutes and are adjustable with Av and A1c respectively See page 14 7 Calculated Absorption Charge Targ...

Page 11: ...ation on how to use the Color Display to change MC 618 settings see the SG200 manual NOTE When a battery program is changed all settings under Advanced Settings will be replaced with the new battery p...

Page 12: ...es Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Standard Flooded Halogen Systems Lithium Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Carbon Foam AGM Yes Balmar Alternator Models 6 Series Alternators 70A 150A Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes XT AT Series Alte...

Page 13: ...GULATOR TOO HOT OVER 90 C E25 BATTERY TOO COLD BELOW LIMIT E33 BATTERY SENSE DIS CONECTED E41 FIELD VOLTAGE TOO HIGH E42 STATOR VOLTAGE TOO HIGH E51 SMALL ENGINE MODE IS IN OPERATION E52 BELT LOAD MAN...

Page 14: ...asic Programming with Reed Switch Basic Programming with Reed Switch Programming For Battery Type The MC 618 features selectable programs for the following battery technologies Standard Flooded FSb De...

Page 15: ...n the battery or batteries can handle you may use the Max Field Belt Manager feature on the MC 618 to lower the maximum field drive output and thereby lower the maximum alternator output current See p...

Page 16: ...a Spiral FSB Flooded Standard HAL Halogen Lighting LFP LiFeP04 FEL Max Field Belt Load F 1 95 Field F 2 90 Field Max F 3 85 Field F 4 80 Field F 5 75 Field F 6 70 Field F 7 65 Field F 8 60 Field F 9 5...

Page 17: ...ETTING 1 FIELD REDUCTION 5 F 2 INDICATES FEL SETTING 2 FIELD REDUCTION 10 F 3 INDICATES FEL SETTING 3 FIELD REDUCTION 15 F 4 INDICATES FEL SETTING 4 FIELD REDUCTION 20 F 5 INDICATES FEL SETTING 5 FIEL...

Page 18: ...e magnet from the reed switch 2 Wait for the mode indicator to be displayed 3 TOUCH HOLD when the mode indicator is displayed The values for that mode will begin to scroll in the opposite direction Co...

Page 19: ...old Bulk and Absorption Controls the field output threshold required to cycle from Bulk to Absorb and Absorb to Float Factory set at 65 of field output Raising FbA shortens calculated bulk and absorpt...

Page 20: ...supplied and installed audible or visual alert if the following issues were to occur while the regulator is in operation Low Battery Voltage 12 8V Adjustable with ALL See Page 12 High Battery Voltage...

Page 21: ...3 Add appropriate connectors to the switched wires and connect to the positive and negative terminal connections If feature is activated prior to the regulator turning on then the regulator will star...

Page 22: ...lso helpful diagnostic tools Voltage Regulator Testing Set your voltmeter to 12VDC and connect the negative lead to the BLACK ground wire at the regulator as shown at the diagram at right 1 With the i...

Page 23: ...d Testing This can be accomplished by jumping a positive 12VDC current to the field terminal at the rear of the alternator This test eliminates both the regulator and the harness making it easier to i...

Page 24: ...24 NOTES...

Page 25: ...accident abuse neglect exposure to shock electrostatic discharge heat or humidity beyond the product s specifications improper installation inappropriate operation misapplication maintenance or modifi...

Page 26: ...ange This guide was prepared to provide information and does not constitute a contract Balmar reserves the right without prior notice to change delete supplement or otherwise amend at any time the inf...

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