5
Charging/Recharging
Lead-acid batteries require routine maintenance to ensure a full charge and long
battery life. All batteries lose energy from self-discharge over time and more rapidly
when they are at higher temperatures. Therefore, batteries need periodic charging
to replace energy lost through self-discharge. When the unit is not in use, Vector
recommends that the battery is recharged at least every 60 days.
Check the battery charge level by pressing the battery status button. The LED charge
status display will indicate the level of battery charge. When only one red LED
lights, recharge the unit.
Note:
Recharging battery after each use will prolong battery life; frequent heavy
discharges between recharges and/or overcharging will reduce battery life.
The battery can be recharged using an AC or DC adapter (see below).
CAUTION
Make sure ON/OFF Power Switch and Area Light are turned OFF
during recharge as this may slow recharge function.
120 Volt AC Recharge
The AC recharge adapter is a UL listed “wall” type unit that operates from any
120 volt, 60 Hz AC supply that has a standard North American outlet. The adapter
has a barrel connector that plugs into the unit’s recharge port.
Make sure the Jump-Starter Power Switch and Worklight Power Switch are turned OFF
during AC recharge. When an AC recharge adapter is plugged into the recharge
port, the battery charge level display will automatically activate. As recharging
progresses, the red LEDs will light, one by one. Charge the unit until the green
CHARGED indicator lights, then disconnect the AC Recharge Adapter. The AC
recharge system is an automatic taper charge and can be left connected to the main
unit for long periods. (See the figure on page 2 for AC Recharge Port location).
12 Volt DC Recharge
Recharging the Jump-Starter from an external DC power source requires the use of the
DC To DC Recharge Adapter. This adapter has a male DC connector at each end.
Unlike the AC recharge method, DC recharge does NOT automatically activate the
“battery status” display and provide a taper charge. Battery status can still be
monitored by pressing the battery status level pushbutton.
1. Insert the gold-tipped DC/DC charging adapter plug into the vehicle’s 12 volt
DC accessory outlet.
2. Insert the silver-tipped end plug into the 12 volt DC accessory outlet on the front
panel of the unit.
3. Charge the unit until the green CHARGED indicator lights when the battery
status level pushbutton is pressed.
120 VOLT AC
RECHARGE
ADAPTER
12 VOLT DC TO
DC RECHARGE
ADAPTER
4
•
This power system is to be used ONLY on vehicles or boats with
12 volt DC battery systems.
• Never touch RED and BLACK clamps together — this can cause
dangerous sparks, power arcing, and/or explosion.
• Vehicles that have on-board computerized systems may be
damaged if vehicle battery is jump-started. Before jump-starting this
type of vehicle, read the vehicle manual to confirm that external-
starting assistance is advised.
• Excessive engine cranking can damage the vehicle‘s starter motor. If
the engine fails to start after the recommended number of attempts,
discontinue jump-start procedure and look for other problems that
need to be corrected.
• After use, turn the Jump-Starter Power Switch OFF.
• Replace worn or defective parts immediately — contact the Customer
Service Department toll free (866) 584-5504.
USING THE UNIT AS A 12 VOLT DC PORTABLE POWER SUPPLY
This unit is a portable power source for use with all 12 volt DC accessories
equipped with a male accessory outlet plug that are rated up to 5 amps.
1. Lift up the cover of the unit‘s 12 volt DC outlet.
2. Insert the appliance’s 12 volt DC plug into the unit’s 12 Volt DC Accessory
Outlet.
3. Switch on the appliance and operate as usual.
4. Periodically press the Battery Charge Level Pushbutton to check battery status.
CAUTION
Make sure that the Jump-Starter Power Switch is ALWAYS in the OFF
position when using the unit’s 12 Volt DC Accessory Outlet.
DO NOT OPERATE APPLIANCES THAT DRAW MORE THAN 12 AMPS.
WARNING
NEVER INSERT A CIGARETTE LIGHTER INTO THE UNIT’S ACCESSORY OUTLET.
USING THE WORKLIGHT
This unit is equipped with a convenient Worklight built into the handle. It is operated
by the ON/OFF LIGHT pushbutton on the lower right side of the front panel (see the
figure on page 2 for location).
CARE AND MAINTENANCE
This product has a sealed lead acid battery that should be kept fully charged.
Recharge before first use, immediately after each use, and every 60 days if not used
frequently. Failure to do this may reduce the battery life dramatically.
Note:
This unit is delivered in a partially charged state – you must fully charge it
before using it for the first time. Initial AC charge should be 40 hours.
Vec011_VW011_Manual_061005 6/16/05 12:12 PM Page 4
