Starter Batteries and Chargers

With a portable starter or jump leads, first connect the red clamp to the positive terminal of the flat battery, then the other red clamp to the positive of the starter or the good battery. Close with the black clamp on the negative of the good battery and then on a metal earth point away from the flat battery. Start the engine, wait a few minutes and disconnect the leads in reverse order. Always follow the vehicle manual.

The maintenance charger, such as the Voyager or Defender models, charges the battery gently and keeps it charged during periods of inactivity. The starter supplies energy to start the engine in an emergency, but does not replace a charge. The charger is for maintenance, the starter for restarting. Choose according to the battery type and its capacity in Ah.

The charging current is chosen according to the battery capacity in Ah and the intended use. The model name does not always indicate the current: the 1498H/8A charger states the value in its code, while for other models such as the Defender or Sprinter it is best to read the data sheet. Too high a current on a small battery damages it, while too low a current lengthens the charging time.

For models with a starting function, such as the Startleader 400 or the Sprinter 6000 Start, check the starting capacity and the battery type supported on the data sheet. For site vehicles and agricultural machines, the starting value must be suitable for the engine. Choose the model according to the vehicle you need to start.

Battery clamps of adequate cross-section are needed, with well-insulated terminals and cables in good condition. The clamps must be tightened onto clean terminals and must not touch each other. Cables that are too thin can overheat at high currents, so choose a cross-section suited to the starting current.

During charging a battery can emit flammable gases, so avoid flames and sparks near the terminals and work in a ventilated place. Wear safety goggles, remove metal rings and watches and do not tilt the battery. If acid splashes on the skin, rinse with plenty of water. Follow the vehicle manual for the correct procedure.

Mechanics, road hauliers, operators of agricultural machines and site vehicles need starters and chargers to keep their batteries in good order. Anyone who runs generator sets also uses them to keep starting ready. For the family car, the portable starter is useful in an emergency.