Battery Charger DSR118

DSR ProSeries Battery Charger & Engine Starter DSR118

The DSR ProSeries DSR118 Battery Charger & Engine Starter, powered by Schumacher, is designed for charging, maintaining, testing, and assisting with the starting of vehicles equipped with compatible 6V or 12V lead-acid batteries.

The DSR118 combines automatic battery charging, high-current Boost mode, Service mode, and a 125A Engine Start function. It also includes a digital battery tester for checking battery voltage and estimating the battery’s charge condition.

The charger supports standard (STD) and Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) rechargeable lead-acid batteries. Recommended battery capacities are 24Ah for 6V batteries and 44–75Ah for 12V batteries.

Its digital control panel allows users to select operating modes, choose battery type, and monitor battery voltage, charging current, and estimated charge percentage. The unit also includes automatic voltage detection, battery desulfation, float mode monitoring, reverse-polarity protection, and charging fault detection.

Product Features

The DSR118 includes the following features:

• Automatic 6V and 12V battery voltage detection.
• Compatibility with standard (STD) and AGM lead-acid batteries.
• 6A/2A Charge/Maintain mode.
• 15A/40A Boost mode.
• 15A/40A Service mode.
• 125A Engine Start mode.
• Automatic charging and battery maintenance.
• Built-in battery voltage tester.
• Digital battery voltage display.
• Estimated battery charge percentage display.
• Charging current display.
• Battery Type selection button.
• Mode Selection button.
• Display button.
• Automatic battery-condition analysis.
• Desulfation function.
• Reverse-polarity warning indicator.
• Charging status LED indicators.
• Automatic charging abort protection.
• Engine Start cooling protection.
• Built-in cooling fan.
• Automatic startup protection.
• Float mode monitoring for long-term battery maintenance.

Technical Specifications

Battery Compatibility

The DSR118 is designed for charging compatible 6V and 12V rechargeable lead-acid batteries.

Supported Battery Types

Recommended Battery Capacities

Standard (STD) Batteries

Standard lead-acid batteries are commonly used in cars, trucks, and motorcycles.

These batteries may have removable vent caps and are often identified as low-maintenance or maintenance-free.

Standard starting batteries are designed to deliver short bursts of electrical energy for engine starting. They should not be used for deep-cycle applications unless specifically designed for that purpose.

AGM Batteries

AGM batteries contain electrolyte held in an absorbent glass mat positioned close to the battery plates.

They are a type of sealed valve-regulated lead-acid battery.

Common applications include:

• High-performance engine starting.
• Powersports vehicles.
• Deep-cycle applications.
• Solar energy systems.
• Battery storage systems.

Battery Types That Must Not Be Charged

The DSR118 must not be used to charge household dry-cell batteries.

These batteries may burst during charging and cause injury or property damage.

Never charge a frozen battery.

Control Panel and Button Functions

The DSR118 includes a digital display, Display button, Mode Selection button, Battery Type button, and three charging status LED indicators.

Digital Display

The digital display provides information about the connected battery and charger operating status.

Depending on the selected display function, it can show:

• Battery voltage.
• Estimated battery charge percentage.
• Charging current.
• Selected charging mode.
• Battery connection status.
• Charging progress.
• Engine Start status.
• Charging warnings and fault messages.

During charging, the display may enter sleep mode.

Press the Display button to activate it again.

Display Button

The Display button changes the information shown on the digital display.

To reduce energy consumption, press the Display button until the display turns off.

Mode Selection Button

The Mode Selection button allows selection of the charger’s operating modes.

Battery Type Button

The Battery Type button selects the correct battery chemistry.

The available settings are STD and AGM.

Select the battery type that matches the connected battery.

LED Indicator Guide

The DSR118 has three LED indicators for battery connection and charging status.

Flashing Red Reversed LED

A flashing red Reversed LED indicates that the positive and negative battery connections are reversed.

Disconnect the charger from AC power before correcting the clamp connections.

Solid Yellow/Orange Charging LED

A solid yellow/orange Charging LED indicates that the charger is actively operating in a charging mode.

The indicator also illuminates during battery analysis, Boost mode, Service mode, and Engine Start operation.

Solid Green Charged/Maintaining LED

A solid green Charged/Maintaining LED indicates that the battery is fully charged and the charger has switched to automatic Maintain mode.

The digital display shows FULLY CHARGED-AUTO MAINTAINING.

Important Safety Instructions

WARNING: Risk of explosive gases, electric shock, fire, and serious injury.

Lead-acid batteries produce explosive gases during normal operation. Follow all charger, battery, and vehicle manufacturer safety instructions.

General Safety Precautions

• Keep the charger out of reach of children.
• Do not expose the charger to rain or snow.
• Use only attachments recommended or sold by the manufacturer.
• Disconnect the charger by pulling the plug rather than the power cord.
• Do not operate the charger with a damaged cord or plug.
• Do not operate the charger if it has been dropped, struck, or otherwise damaged.
• Never disassemble the charger.
• Have repairs performed by qualified service personnel.
• Disconnect the charger from AC power before cleaning or maintenance.
• Avoid using extension cords unless necessary.
• Never charge a frozen battery.

Battery Explosion Prevention

• Never smoke near a battery or engine.
• Keep sparks and open flames away from batteries.
• Do not allow battery clamps to touch each other.
• Avoid dropping metal tools onto batteries.
• Keep the charging area well ventilated.
• Follow all battery manufacturer safety precautions.

Personal Safety

Another person should be close enough to provide assistance when working near a lead-acid battery.

Wear complete eye protection and protective clothing.

Remove rings, bracelets, necklaces, watches, and other metal jewelry before working near a battery.

Battery Acid Safety

If battery acid contacts skin or clothing, immediately wash the affected area with soap and water.

If battery acid enters the eyes, flush with cold running water for at least 10 minutes and obtain immediate medical attention.

Electrical Safety

Always disconnect the charger from the AC outlet before attaching or removing battery clamps.

Turning off the charger controls alone does not eliminate the risk of electrical shock during maintenance or cleaning.

Engine Starting Safety

The Engine Start function must only be used according to the specified starting procedure.

Never use Engine Start mode without a battery installed in the vehicle. Doing so may damage the vehicle’s electrical system.

Do not attempt to start the vehicle during ordinary battery charging. Use the dedicated Engine Start procedure when starting assistance is required.

If the battery has been charged but the vehicle still will not start, do not continue using Engine Start mode. Have the battery checked.

California Safety Warning

The manufacturer states that this product contains one or more chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.

Preparing the Battery for Charging

Before connecting the DSR118, prepare the battery and charging area.

Battery Preparation Instructions

1. Turn off all vehicle electrical accessories.
2. If the battery must be removed from the vehicle, disconnect the grounded battery terminal first.
3. Make sure the charging area is well ventilated.
4. Clean the battery terminals.
5. Prevent battery corrosion from contacting the eyes.
6. For batteries with removable cell caps, add distilled water until the electrolyte reaches the level recommended by the battery manufacturer.
7. Do not overfill battery cells.
8. For sealed batteries, follow the battery manufacturer’s charging instructions.
9. Check whether the battery is rated for 6V or 12V.
10. Follow the battery manufacturer’s charging precautions and recommended charging rates.

Charger Placement Instructions

Proper charger placement reduces the risk of corrosion, electrical damage, and restricted ventilation.

Positioning the Charger

• Place the charger as far from the battery as the DC cables allow.
• Never position the charger directly above the battery.
• Do not allow battery acid to drip onto the charger.
• Do not operate the charger in an enclosed area without proper ventilation.
• Keep the charger’s ventilation openings unobstructed.
• Never place a battery on top of the charger.

The charger should be placed on a dry, non-flammable surface during operation.

AC Power and Grounding Requirements

The DSR118 operates from a nominal 120V AC electrical circuit.

The charger must be connected to a properly installed and grounded electrical outlet.

Grounding Instructions

1. Connect the charger to a grounded 120V AC outlet.
2. Make sure the plug fits the outlet correctly.
3. Do not modify the supplied power cord or plug.
4. Do not use the charger with an ungrounded electrical system.
5. If the plug does not fit, have a suitable grounded outlet installed by a qualified electrician.

An improper electrical connection can cause electric shock or electrocution.

Adapter Plug Restrictions

The use of an adapter plug is not permitted in Canada under the regulations identified in the manual.

Adapter plugs are not recommended for use with this charger in the United States.

Using an Extension Cord

An extension cord should only be used when necessary.

The cord must be properly wired, in good electrical condition, and adequately rated for the charger’s power requirements.

Extension Cord Requirements

The extension cord plug must have the same number, size, and shape of pins as the charger plug.

Before First Use

The DSR118 requires minimal preparation before operation.

Initial Setup Instructions

1. Remove all cord wraps.
2. Uncoil the AC power cord.
3. Uncoil the DC charging cables.
4. Inspect the charger, cables, and clamps for damage.
5. Position the charger on a dry, non-flammable surface.
6. Keep the charger disconnected from AC power while connecting the battery clamps.
7. Connect the battery using the correct procedure.
8. Plug the charger into a grounded 120V AC outlet.
9. Select the appropriate battery type and operating mode.

The charger checks the battery condition before beginning normal charging.

Connecting the Charger to a Battery Installed in a Vehicle

WARNING: A spark near the battery can cause an explosion.

Before connecting the clamps, determine whether the vehicle uses a negative-ground or positive-ground electrical system.

Battery Terminal Identification

The positive terminal normally has a larger diameter than the negative terminal.

Connecting to a Negative-Ground Vehicle

Most vehicles use a negative-ground electrical system.

1. Turn off the ignition and electrical accessories.
2. Disconnect the charger from AC power.
3. Connect the red positive (+) clamp to the positive battery terminal.
4. Connect the black negative (-) clamp to a heavy-gauge metal part of the vehicle chassis or engine block away from the battery.
5. Do not connect the chassis clamp to fuel lines, carburetors, or sheet-metal body panels.
6. Make sure both connections are secure.

Connecting to a Positive-Ground Vehicle

For vehicles with a positive-ground electrical system:

1. Disconnect the charger from AC power.
2. Connect the black negative (-) clamp to the negative battery terminal.
3. Connect the red positive (+) clamp to a heavy-gauge metal part of the chassis or engine block away from the battery.
4. Make sure both connections are secure.

Disconnecting the Charger from a Vehicle

When charging is complete:

1. Turn off the charger controls as applicable.
2. Disconnect the AC power cord.
3. Remove the clamp attached to the vehicle chassis or engine block.
4. Remove the clamp attached to the battery terminal.

Connecting the Charger to a Battery Outside the Vehicle

When charging a battery outside the vehicle, an additional insulated negative battery cable must be used to reduce the risk of sparks near the battery.

Required Battery Cable

Connection Instructions

1. Place the battery in a well-ventilated area.
2. Identify the positive and negative battery terminals.
3. Attach a minimum 24-inch-long, 6 AWG insulated battery cable to the negative battery terminal.
4. Connect the red positive charger clamp to the positive battery terminal.
5. Position the free end of the insulated negative cable as far from the battery as practical.
6. Connect the black negative charger clamp to the free end of the insulated cable.
7. Do not face the battery while making the final connection.

Disconnecting the Charger

When charging is complete, disconnect AC power first.

Remove the battery connections in the reverse sequence, making the first disconnection as far from the battery as practical.

Charging Marine Batteries

A marine battery must be removed from the boat and charged on shore.

Charging a battery aboard a boat requires equipment specifically designed for marine use.

How to Charge a Battery Installed in a Vehicle

The DSR118 can charge a compatible 6V or 12V lead-acid battery while it remains installed in a vehicle.

Charging Instructions

1. Turn off all vehicle accessories.
2. Keep the vehicle hood open.
3. Clean the battery terminals.
4. Place the charger on a dry, non-flammable surface.
5. Position the AC and DC cables away from fan blades, belts, pulleys, and other moving parts.
6. Connect the battery clamps according to the vehicle’s grounding system.
7. Plug the charger into a grounded 120V AC outlet.
8. Select the correct battery type.
9. Select the Charge/Maintain operating mode.
10. The yellow/orange Charging LED illuminates.
11. The digital display shows ANALYZING BATTERY while the charger checks the battery connection and condition.
12. Allow charging to continue automatically.
13. When charging is complete, the green Charged/Maintaining LED illuminates.
14. Disconnect the charger from AC power.
15. Remove the chassis clamp, followed by the battery terminal clamp.

How to Charge a Battery Outside the Vehicle

The DSR118 can also charge a compatible battery that has been removed from a vehicle.

Charging Instructions

1. Place the battery in a well-ventilated area.
2. Clean the battery terminals.
3. Connect the charger using the appropriate outside-vehicle connection procedure.
4. Plug the charger into a grounded 120V AC outlet.
5. Select the correct battery type.
6. Select the Charge/Maintain mode.
7. The yellow/orange Charging LED illuminates.
8. The digital display shows ANALYZING BATTERY.
9. Allow the charger to complete the charging process.
10. Disconnect the charger from AC power.
11. Disconnect the negative charging connection.
12. Disconnect the positive charging connection.

Charging and Operating Modes

The DSR118 provides four main operating modes selected using the Mode Selection button.

Operating Mode Overview

Charge/Maintain Mode (6A/2A)

Charge/Maintain mode is designed for charging compatible small and large batteries.

The charger automatically enters Maintain mode when charging is complete.

How to Use Charge/Maintain Mode

1. Connect the battery using the correct connection procedure.
2. Plug the charger into a grounded AC outlet.
3. Select the correct battery type.
4. Press the Mode Selection button to select Charge/Maintain.
5. Allow the charger to analyze and charge the battery.
6. Monitor the charging progress using the Display button.
7. When the battery is fully charged, the green Charged/Maintaining LED illuminates.

This mode is not recommended for industrial applications.

Automatic Boost Selection

If Charge/Maintain mode is selected and the battery’s starting voltage is below 12.8V, the charger automatically switches to Boost mode.

Pressing the Mode Selection button again returns the charger to Charge/Maintain mode and keeps it in that mode.

Boost Mode (15A/40A)

Boost mode supplies increased charging current to help restore energy to a deeply discharged battery.

It raises the charging voltage and supplies a quick burst of charging energy.

How to Use Boost Mode

1. Connect the charger to the battery.
2. Plug the charger into a grounded AC outlet.
3. Select the correct battery type.
4. Press the Mode Selection button until Boost mode is selected.
5. The display shows BOOST MODE ON.
6. The yellow/orange Charging LED illuminates.
7. Allow the charger to operate according to the selected mode.

Boost Mode Output

The charger provides continuous output ratings up to 15A and intermittent output up to 40A.

The 40A intermittent output is limited to a maximum of 40 seconds ON followed by at least 120 seconds OFF.

Service Mode (15A/40A)

Service mode maintains a stable voltage of 13.6V to help prevent battery discharge during vehicle servicing or when the vehicle is idle in a showroom.

Service Mode Applications

Service mode may be used when:

• A vehicle is undergoing service.
• Electrical systems require a stable battery voltage.
• A vehicle is being kept idle in a showroom.

How to Use Service Mode

1. Connect the charger to the battery using the appropriate connection procedure.
2. Plug the charger into a grounded AC outlet.
3. Select the correct battery type.
4. Press the Mode Selection button until Service mode is selected.
5. The display shows SERVICE MODE ON.
6. The yellow/orange Charging LED illuminates.
7. Use the Display button to view battery voltage and estimated output current.

Important: Service mode must always be used with a battery connected.

Battery Percentage During Service Mode

The estimated battery charge percentage is not valid during Service mode.

The digital display can be used to view voltage and estimated current instead.

Engine Start Mode (125A)

The DSR118 includes a 125A Engine Start mode designed to provide additional current when starting a vehicle with a weak or discharged battery.

WARNING: Engine Start mode must never be used without a battery installed in the vehicle. Using this mode without a battery can damage the vehicle’s electrical system.

Before Using Engine Start Mode

• Wear complete eye protection and protective clothing.
• Make sure the battery is correctly connected.
• Follow the battery and vehicle manufacturer safety instructions.
• Keep the charger ventilation openings clear.
• Do not use Engine Start mode if the battery has already been charged but the vehicle still will not start.

How to Use Engine Start Mode

1. With the charger disconnected from AC power, connect the battery clamps according to the appropriate vehicle connection procedure.
2. Plug the charger into a grounded AC electrical outlet.
3. Press the Mode Selection button until the display shows ENGINE START SELECTED-PRESS TO SELECT BATTERY TEST MODE.
4. Wait for the display to change to ENGINE START ON.
5. Allow the charger to operate for a few more minutes.
6. When the display shows ENGINE START READY, crank the engine until it starts or three seconds have passed.
7. If the engine does not start, wait three minutes until ENGINE START READY appears again before attempting another start.
8. If the engine still fails to start, charge the battery for another five minutes before attempting to crank again.
9. After the engine starts, disconnect the AC power cord before removing the battery clamps.

Engine Start in Extremely Cold Weather

During extremely cold weather, or when the battery voltage is below 2V, charge the battery for five minutes before attempting to crank the engine.

If the Engine Turns Over but Will Not Start

If the engine turns over but does not start, the problem may not be related to the starting system.

Stop cranking the engine until the other vehicle problem has been diagnosed and corrected.

Engine Start Sequence and Cooling Protection

During Engine Start operation, the charger uses three operating states.

Engine Start States

Wait for Cranking

The charger waits until the vehicle’s starter motor begins cranking.

Starting current is supplied only when cranking is detected.

Cranking

When engine cranking is detected, the charger automatically supplies up to its maximum starting current as required by the starting system.

The charger can provide engine-start output for up to five seconds, or until cranking stops.

The digital display counts down the remaining cranking time.

The operating procedure instructs stopping the starting attempt after three seconds if the engine has not started.

Cool Down

After cranking, the charger enters a mandatory three-minute (180-second) cooling period.

The display shows:

ENGINE START COOL DOWN XXX SECONDS REMAINING

The countdown begins at 180 seconds and continues to zero.

When the cooling period ends, the display shows:

ENGINE START READY

The charger is then ready for another starting attempt.

Automatic Charging and Maintain Mode

The DSR118 automatically switches to Maintain mode after completing a normal charging cycle.

Charge Completion Indicators

How Maintain Mode Works

Maintain mode monitors the battery and supplies charging current when necessary to keep it fully charged.

The DSR118 can maintain compatible 6V and 12V batteries.

This mode is not recommended for industrial applications.

Long-Term Battery Maintenance

Maintain mode allows healthy batteries to remain charged for extended periods.

The battery and charging process should still be checked occasionally.

Battery defects, vehicle electrical problems, improper connections, and excessive current draw may affect maintenance operation.

Maintain Mode Abort Protection

If the charger must supply its maximum maintenance current continuously for 12 hours, it enters Abort mode.

This may occur because:

• An electrical load is draining the battery.
• The battery is defective.
• The battery cannot retain its charge.

If this happens, remove connected electrical loads and have the battery checked or replaced if necessary.

Desulfation Mode

A lead-acid battery left discharged for an extended period may become sulfated and unable to accept a normal charge.

The DSR118 includes an automatic desulfation function.

How Desulfation Works

1. The charger detects a sulfated battery.
2. The digital display shows BAD BATTERY.
3. The charger enters a special desulfation process.
4. If desulfation is successful, normal charging resumes.
5. If desulfation fails, charging is aborted.

Desulfation Duration

The desulfation process may take up to 10 hours.

Desulfation Failure

If desulfation fails, the charger stops charging and displays:

CHARGE ABORTED-BAD BATTERY

Have the battery checked and replace it if necessary.

Battery Voltage Tester

The DSR118 includes a battery voltage tester for checking connected 6V and 12V batteries.

How to Test Battery Voltage

1. With the charger disconnected from AC power, connect the battery clamps using the appropriate connection procedure.
2. Plug the charger into a grounded AC electrical outlet.
3. Select the correct battery type if necessary.
4. Read the battery voltage on the digital display.
5. Compare the voltage reading with the battery condition chart.

Battery Voltage Test Chart

Battery Voltage Testing Precautions

The voltage reading is only a battery voltage measurement.

A false surface charge may affect the reading and give a misleading indication of battery condition.

The battery tester is designed for testing batteries.

Testing a device with rapidly changing voltage may produce unexpected or inaccurate readings.

Switching Between Tester and Charger

When first powered on, the DSR118 operates as a battery tester rather than a charger.

Selecting a charging mode activates the charger and deactivates the tester.

Returning to Battery Test Mode

After charging has started:

1. Press the Mode Selection button until the display shows the battery voltage.
2. The charger returns to battery testing operation.

When Engine Start mode is active, pressing the Mode Selection button can stop charging and activate the tester, except during the mandatory 180-second cooling period.

Automatic Power-Up Idle Time Limit

If no button is pressed within 10 minutes after the charger is first powered on, the unit automatically switches from Tester mode to Charger mode when a battery is connected.

The charger selects:

The correct battery type and operating mode should be selected before charging when these automatic settings are not appropriate.

Restarting the Charging Process

Changing the operating mode or battery type after charging has started restarts the charging process.

The restart occurs when either the Mode Selection button or Battery Type button is used to change the active setting.

Battery Charging Times

Charging time depends on battery capacity, condition, age, and level of discharge.

The owner’s manual provides a comparison chart for several battery sizes and charging current ratings.

Battery Charging Time Chart

These estimates assume batteries are approximately 50% discharged.

Actual charging times vary depending on battery age and condition.

The chart is a general comparison of charging rates. It does not represent additional selectable 8A or 10A charging modes on the DSR118, and its battery examples do not replace the model’s recommended capacity ratings.

Aborted Charge Mode

The DSR118 automatically stops charging if a battery cannot be charged normally.

What Happens When Charging Is Aborted?

• The charger stops supplying output current.
• The digital display shows CHARGE ABORTED-BAD BATTERY.
• Charging does not continue normally.

Possible Causes of Aborted Charging

Charging may be aborted if:

• The battery is severely sulfated.
• The battery has a shorted cell.
• The battery is too large for the charger.
• A battery bank cannot reach full charge within the allowed time.
• The battery has a weak cell and cannot retain charge.
• An excessive electrical load requires maximum maintenance current continuously for 12 hours.

Do not continue attempting to charge a battery after charging has been aborted.

Have the battery checked and replace it if necessary.

Cooling Fan Operation

The DSR118 includes a cooling fan.

The fan may start and stop while maintaining a fully charged battery.

This is normal operation.

The fan does not operate in Tester mode.

Keep the charger’s ventilation areas clear so the fan can operate efficiently.

Digital Display Messages

The DSR118 uses digital messages to indicate battery voltage, operating modes, connection problems, and charging conditions.

Display Message Guide

CONNECT CLAMPS

This message indicates that the charger is not detecting a proper battery connection.

Check the battery clamps and connection points.

WARNING-CLAMPS REVERSED

This message indicates that the battery clamps are connected with reversed polarity.

The red Reversed LED flashes.

Disconnect AC power and correct the connections.

ANALYZING BATTERY

The charger is checking the battery connection and condition.

The yellow/orange Charging LED remains illuminated during this process.

BAD BATTERY

The charger has detected a sulfated battery.

The battery may require inspection or replacement.

CHARGE ABORTED-BAD BATTERY

The charging process has stopped because of a battery or charging fault.

Do not continue attempting to charge the battery.

FULLY CHARGED-AUTO MAINTAINING

The connected battery is fully charged, and the charger has switched to automatic Maintain mode.

The green Charged/Maintaining LED remains solid.

Troubleshooting Guide

The following troubleshooting information covers power problems, battery connections, charging errors, Engine Start problems, and display messages.

Schumacher DSR118 Troubleshooting Table

Charger Will Not Turn On

If the DSR118 does not operate when connected:

Check the Electrical Outlet

1. Confirm that the charger is plugged into a grounded AC outlet.
2. Check whether the outlet has power.
3. Check the fuse or circuit breaker supplying the outlet.

Check the Power Cord

Inspect the power cord and extension cord connections for loose-fitting plugs.

Check the Battery

If the power supply and electrical connections are correct but the charger does not operate, the battery may be defective.

Have it checked.

Battery Clamps Do Not Spark

The DSR118 includes an automatic startup protection feature.

It does not supply current to the battery clamps until a battery is properly connected.

The absence of sparks when the clamps touch is normal.

The clamps must still never be intentionally touched together.

Battery Is Connected but Not Charging

If the battery is properly connected but charging does not begin, the charger may be operating in Tester mode.

Press the Mode Selection button to activate the required charging mode.

Digital Display Is Blank

If the digital display is not showing any readings:

1. Check that the charger is connected to AC power.
2. Check the fuse or circuit breaker supplying the outlet.
3. Press the Display button to wake the display if it has entered sleep mode.

Display Shows ANALYZING BATTERY

The charger is checking the connected battery.

The yellow/orange Charging LED remains solid during analysis.

If the battery’s starting voltage is below 8.0V, the checking process may take up to five minutes.

This is normal operation.

Display Shows BAD BATTERY

The charger has detected a sulfated battery.

Have the battery checked and replace it if necessary.

Display Shows CHARGE ABORTED-BAD BATTERY

The charger has stopped charging because the battery cannot be charged normally.

Possible causes include:

• Severe battery sulfation.
• Failed desulfation.
• A battery that is too large for the charger.

Have the battery checked or use a charger with a higher amperage rating when appropriate.

Display Shows CONNECT CLAMPS

The charger is not detecting a proper battery connection.

Check the battery clamps and chassis connections.

Clean the connection points and make sure the clamps have secure electrical contact.

Engine Start Troubleshooting

If the DSR118 produces a short starting cycle or does not assist engine cranking, check the following conditions.

Engine Start Troubleshooting Table

Engine Start Cooling Time

The charger requires a three-minute cooling period between starting attempts.

Do not attempt another start until the display shows ENGINE START READY.

Severely Discharged Battery

For a severely discharged battery, operate the 15A/40A Boost mode for a few minutes before attempting Engine Start again.

Excessive Engine Starting Current

If the engine requires more starting current than the charger’s rated Engine Start output, the available cranking time may be shorter than five seconds.

Charger Overheating

If the charger becomes overheated, the thermal protection may activate.

Keep the ventilation openings clear.

Allow additional time for the thermal protection to reset before attempting another start.

Maintenance and Cleaning Instructions

Regular cleaning and proper cable care help maintain the DSR118.

Cleaning the Battery Clamps

After each charging session:

1. Disconnect the charger from AC power.
2. Disconnect the battery clamps.
3. Wipe away any battery fluid that contacted the clamps.
4. Clean the clamps to prevent corrosion.

Cleaning the Charger Housing

Occasionally clean the charger’s outer housing using a soft cloth.

This helps maintain the finish and prevent corrosion.

Cable Maintenance

Coil the input and output cords neatly when storing the charger.

This helps prevent accidental damage to the charger and cables.

Storage Instructions

The DSR118 should be stored indoors in a cool, dry location.

Proper Storage Procedure

1. Disconnect the charger from AC power.
2. Disconnect all battery connections.
3. Clean the charger and clamps.
4. Coil the charging and power cables neatly.
5. Store the charger in an upright position.
6. Keep the charger in a cool, dry indoor location.

Battery Clamp Storage Precautions

Do not store the clamps:

• Attached to the charger handle.
• Clipped together.
• Attached to or around metal objects.
• Clipped to the charger’s cables.

Two-Year Limited Warranty

The Schumacher DSR118 is covered by a two-year limited warranty.

Warranty Coverage

Warranty Repair or Replacement

If the charger develops a covered defect, Schumacher may repair the unit or replace it with a new or reconditioned unit.

The manufacturer determines whether repair or replacement is appropriate.

The purchaser must provide proof of purchase and pay shipping charges in advance when sending the unit for warranty service.

Warranty Exclusions

The limited warranty may be void if the charger:

• Is misused.
• Is handled carelessly.
• Is repaired or modified by an unauthorized person.
• Is resold through an unauthorized retailer.
• Has a warranty label removed when the manufacturer determines that removal voids coverage.

Accessories that are not manufactured and approved by Schumacher Electric Corporation are not covered by this limited warranty.

Warranty Registration

The charger can be registered online at:

www.batterychargers.com

The warranty registration card should be submitted within 30 days of purchase.

Keep the original retail purchase receipt because it is required for warranty claims.

Customer Support and Repair Information

Schumacher Electric Corporation provides customer assistance for troubleshooting, repairs, and product returns.

Customer Support Details

Repair and Return Procedure

1. Contact Schumacher Customer Service at 1-800-621-5485.
2. Describe the charging or operating problem.
3. Follow the troubleshooting assistance provided.
4. Request a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number if repair or return is required.
5. Do not ship the charger until an RMA number has been issued.

The warranty registration address must not be used to send the charger for repairs.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What types of batteries can the Schumacher DSR118 charge?

The Schumacher DSR118 is designed for compatible 6V and 12V standard (STD) and AGM lead-acid rechargeable batteries. The recommended battery capacity is 24Ah for 6V batteries and 44–75Ah for 12V batteries. The correct battery type must be selected before charging.

2. How many amps does the Schumacher DSR118 provide?

The DSR118 provides continuous DC output ratings of 2A, 6A, and 15A. It also provides intermittent output up to 40A for Boost and Service operations and up to 125A for Engine Start. The 125A output is limited to a maximum of five seconds followed by a minimum 180-second cooling period.

3. How do I use Engine Start mode on the Schumacher DSR118?

Connect the charger to the vehicle battery, plug it into a grounded AC outlet, and select Engine Start mode using the Mode Selection button. Wait until the display shows ENGINE START READY before cranking the engine. Stop the attempt after three seconds if the engine does not start, and wait three minutes before another attempt. Engine Start mode must never be used without a battery installed in the vehicle.

4. What is Boost mode on the Schumacher DSR118?

Boost mode supplies increased charging current to help restore energy to a deeply discharged battery. The DSR118 uses its 15A/40A Boost function for this purpose. If Charge/Maintain mode is selected and the battery’s starting voltage is below 12.8V, the charger may automatically switch to Boost mode.

5. What is Service mode on the Schumacher DSR118?

Service mode maintains a stable 13.6V output to help prevent battery discharge during vehicle servicing or when a vehicle is idle in a showroom. The charger must always be used with a battery connected. The battery charge percentage displayed during Service mode is not valid.

6. What does a flashing red light mean on the Schumacher DSR118?

A flashing red Reversed LED indicates that the battery clamps are connected with reversed polarity. The display may show WARNING-CLAMPS REVERSED. Disconnect the charger from AC power before correcting the clamp connections.

7. What does CHARGE ABORTED-BAD BATTERY mean on the DSR118?

The message indicates that the charger has stopped charging because of a battery or charging fault. Possible causes include severe sulfation, a shorted battery cell, an oversized battery, or a battery that cannot retain its charge. The charger shuts off its output, and the battery should be checked and replaced if necessary.

8. Can the Schumacher DSR118 test and maintain a battery?

Yes. The DSR118 includes a battery voltage tester and automatic Maintain mode. The tester displays voltage readings for connected 6V and 12V batteries. After charging is complete, Maintain mode monitors the battery and supplies charging current as needed to keep a healthy battery fully charged.