6
PRE-CHARGE ACTIVATION:
CAUTION:
Be aware that a fully discharged battery will also cause a low ammeter reading. Attempting
pre-charge activation of a fully discharged battery may cause explosion - make sure that battery really is
discharged, before using this procedure. Apply a load to the battery to check if it is charged or
discharged. Pre-charge activation is the term for the time it takes before a battery begins to accept a
measurable rate of charge - it can be as long as 4-8 hours from the time the charging process begins.
Pre-charge activation is indicated if the ammeter reading is zero and a hydrometer or voltmeter reading
shows that the battery is fully discharged.
NOTE:
The newer, high-calcium-type 12 volt DC batteries may need pre-charge activation if their charge has
been allowed to drop to a very low level. When deeply discharged, this type of battery will provide only
a very low voltage output and will draw less than 1 amp during the recharging process, until activated.
CHARGING IF BATTERY IS INSTALLED IN A VEHICLE:
It is normal for a battery to get warm during charging. If a battery is getting hot, reduce charge rate or
discontinue charging.
a) Set charger voltage selector switch to appropriate setting. If in doubt, refer to vehicle manufacturers'
recommendations.
b) Check polarity of battery posts - For top-mounted battery connectors, the Positive post (marked
POS, P, +) usually has a larger diameter than the Negative battery post (marked NEG, N, -). For side-
mounted battery connectors, the terminals are marked Positive -red and Negative - black.
c) Attach charger clamps to battery connections, as follows, ensuring a good connection:
NEGATIVE-GROUNDED VEHICLE:
Connect the POSITIVE (RED) charger clamp to the POSITIVE (POS, P,
+) ungrounded battery terminal. Then, connect the NEGATIVE (BLACK) charger clamp to the vehicle chassis,
or the engine block (away from the battery). DO NOT connect the clamp to the carburetor, fuel lines, or
sheet-metal body parts: connect only to a heavy gauge metal part of the frame or engine block.
NOTE:
NEGATIVE-GROUNDED type systems are the most common in today's Vehicles. If in doubt, check
vehicle manufacturers' recommendations.
POSITIVE-GROUNDED VEHICLE:
Connect the NEGATIVE (BLACK) charger clamp to the NEGATIVE
(NEG, N, -) ungrounded battery post. Then, connect the POSITIVE (RED) battery clamp to the vehicle chassis
or engine part (away from the battery). DO NOT connect the clamp to the carburetor, fuel lines, or sheet-
metal body parts: connect only to a heavy gauge, stable metal part of the frame or engine block.
NOTE:
If there is any problem connecting the charger clamps to the battery terminals, contact the Vector
Technical Support Department at (954 - 584-4446) for assistance.
d) Plug battery charger power cord into grounded AC power outlet and refer to Appendix A at the end
of this document for approximate charging times.
NOTE:
Use of Extension Cords
If it is necessary to use an extension cord, as is often the case, observe the following important safety
information:
• Before using any extension cord, ensure that the wire size is at least 18 AWG or larger and 16 AWG
for longer than 100 feet.
• Use only a good quality, good condition, UL-approved extension cord, and ALWAYS connect charger to
the extension cord before plugging the extension cord into a 110/120 volt AC power outlet. The use of a
poor quality extension cord or one that is not in good repair could cause fire and/or electric shock.
• Use a three-wire extension cord with a 3-prong plug and 3-conductor socket.
e) When charging is completed, disconnect cables and clamps in reverse order from which they were
connected.
