Jump Starter DSR168

Schumacher Jump Starter DSR168

The Schumacher DSR168 and DSR168G are portable jump starters and 12V DC power sources designed to assist with starting vehicles and powering compatible 12V accessories.

The units contain an internal sealed, non-spillable lead-acid battery, heavy-duty battery clamps, a 12V DC power socket, and a digital display for checking battery voltage and charge status.

The jump starter can also provide temporary electrical power to compatible 12V DC equipment, including portable fans, radios, lights, electric coolers, and other accessories equipped with a 12V accessory plug.

The internal battery can be recharged from a 120V AC electrical outlet using a suitable power cord. An optional 12V charging cable also permits charging while driving, subject to strict charging-time and supervision limits.

The digital display provides charging information, battery percentages, and diagnostic messages. Automatic charging maintenance, overload protection for the 12V outlet, and battery troubleshooting functions are also included.

Product Features

The Schumacher DSR168 and DSR168G provide the following features:

• Vehicle jump-starting using integrated battery clamps.
• Internal sealed, non-spillable lead-acid battery.
• Digital battery voltage and percentage display.
• Display button for checking battery information.
• 12V DC accessory outlet.
• AC charging through a 120V electrical supply.
• Automatic maintain mode after full AC charging.
• Optional charging through a vehicle’s 12V accessory outlet.
• Automatic circuit breaker protection for the 12V DC outlet.
• Digital charging and diagnostic messages.
• Clamp storage holders.
• Portable housing with a carrying handle.

Technical Specifications and Operating Information

Parts and Components

The product illustration identifies four main external components.

Component Identification

Battery Clamps

The jump starter includes red and black battery clamps used to connect the unit to a vehicle battery.

• The red clamp is the positive (+) connection.
• The black clamp is the negative (-) connection.

Connection placement depends on whether the vehicle uses a negative-ground or positive-ground electrical system.

When not in use, both clamps must remain attached to their designated plastic storage holders.

12V DC Power Socket

The 12V DC socket supplies power to accessories equipped with compatible 12V plugs.

The outlet has an internal circuit breaker that disconnects power when the connected accessory draws more than 15A or creates a short circuit.

Digital Display

The digital display provides information about:

• Internal battery voltage.
• Internal battery charge percentage.
• Charging progress.
• Battery maintenance status.
• Connected battery readings.
• Charging and battery fault codes.

Display Button

The Display button is located on the front of the jump starter.

Pressing the button changes the information displayed for the internal battery or connected vehicle battery.

Important Safety Instructions

Warning: Risk of explosion, fire, electric shock, and serious injury.

Lead-acid batteries produce explosive gases during normal operation. A spark near the battery can cause an explosion.

All instructions must be followed whenever the jump starter is used.

General Safety Precautions

1. Read the operating instructions before using the jump starter.
2. Keep the unit out of reach of children.
3. Supervise the equipment closely when it is used near children.
4. Do not insert hands or fingers into the power pack.
5. Do not expose the unit to rain or snow.
6. Use only attachments recommended by the manufacturer.
7. Disconnect electrical cords by pulling the plug rather than the cable.
8. Do not operate the unit with damaged cables, plugs, or clamps.
9. Do not use a damaged or modified battery pack.
10. Do not disassemble the jump starter.
11. Disconnect the power cord before maintenance.
12. Keep battery clamps from touching each other.
13. Follow the vehicle and battery manufacturers’ safety instructions.
14. Use qualified repair personnel for servicing.
15. Do not expose the unit to fire or temperatures above 265°F (130°C).

Incorrect repair or reassembly can create electrical shock or fire hazards.

Personal Safety Precautions

When working near a lead-acid battery:

• Have another person nearby who can provide assistance.
• Keep fresh water and soap accessible.
• Wear eye protection and protective clothing.
• Remove rings, necklaces, bracelets, watches, and other metallic items.
• Never smoke near the battery.
• Keep flames and sparks away from the battery and engine.
• Avoid dropping metal tools onto the battery.
• Do not allow the clamps to contact each other or the same metal surface.
• Avoid touching the eyes while working near the battery.

A lead-acid battery can produce enough short-circuit current to heat metal jewelry and cause severe burns.

Battery Acid Safety

Battery acid can cause serious burns and eye injuries.

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

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

Liquid released from a damaged battery must not be touched. If accidental contact occurs, rinse the affected area with water.

Charging Safety

Charging must take place in a well-ventilated area.

Do not block airflow around the jump starter while its internal battery is charging.

The unit must be disconnected from its electrical supply before instructed maintenance or cleaning.

Battery Disposal

The jump starter contains a sealed, non-spillable lead-acid battery.

The battery must be disposed of properly through an appropriate battery collection or recycling service.

It must not be discarded without following applicable battery disposal requirements.

Before First Use

The internal battery must be charged immediately after purchase.

Before operating the jump starter:

1. Inspect the battery clamps and cables for damage.
2. Check that both clamps are positioned on their storage holders.
3. Verify that the charging cord is suitable for the unit.
4. Fully charge the internal battery.
5. Check the battery percentage using the Display button.
6. Read the vehicle battery manufacturer’s instructions before attempting a jump start.

Important: Recharge the jump starter after every use and at least once every 30 days.

Using the Digital Display

The digital display is used to check the jump starter’s internal battery and the connected vehicle battery.

Checking the Internal Battery Voltage

1. Make sure the battery clamps are attached to their plastic storage holders.
2. Keep the clamps separated so they cannot touch.
3. Press the Display button.
4. Read the internal battery voltage shown on the screen.

Checking the Internal Battery Percentage

1. With the clamps securely stored, press the Display button.
2. Press the button a second time to display the internal battery percentage.
3. Check the displayed charge level.

A fully charged internal battery displays 100%.

If the display shows less than 100%, the unit should be recharged as soon as possible.

The battery percentage is most accurate after the jump starter has been disconnected from chargers and connected devices for several hours.

Checking the Vehicle Battery Voltage

1. Connect the jump starter clamps to the vehicle battery according to the proper connection procedure.
2. Press the Display button.
3. Read the voltage displayed.

Note: With the clamps connected, the display shows the combined voltage of the jump starter’s internal battery and the vehicle battery.

Checking the Connected Vehicle Battery Percentage

1. Connect the jump starter to the vehicle battery correctly.
2. Press the Display button.
3. Press the button a second time.
4. Read the displayed percentage.

The percentage represents the combined battery reading rather than an isolated measurement of the vehicle battery.

Charging the Internal Battery

The internal battery should remain fully charged to maintain dependable jump-starting performance.

When to Recharge

The battery must be charged:

• Immediately after purchasing the unit.
• After each use.
• Every 30 days during storage or infrequent use.
• Whenever the charge level falls below 100%.

Required Charging Cord

A suitable AC power cord is necessary to charge the jump starter.

The AC power cord is not included.

The charging cord must have a wire size of 18 AWG or larger.

An extension cord should only be used when absolutely necessary.

Recommended Extension Cord Sizes

AWG means American Wire Gauge.

If an extension cord is required, its plug must match the charger connection, the cord must be correctly wired, and the cable must be in good condition.

How to Charge the DSR168 / DSR168G Using AC Power

1. Connect an appropriate 18-AWG or larger AC power cord to the AC connector on the side of the jump starter.
2. Plug the power cord into a live 120V AC wall outlet.
3. Observe the digital display.
4. A cycling red dot indicates that the unit has started charging.
5. Press the Display button to check the charging percentage.
6. Continue charging until the display reaches 100%.
7. Once fully charged, the unit automatically enters maintain mode.
8. Disconnect the AC charging cord when appropriate.

Charging Time

Charging time depends on the internal battery configuration.

For units equipped with two batteries, complete charging may take up to 48 hours.

Automatic Maintain Mode

When the internal battery becomes fully charged:

1. The digital display reaches 100%.
2. The charger automatically enters maintain mode.
3. The display shows a slowly fading 100% indication.
4. The charging system maintains the battery at full charge without damaging it through normal maintenance charging.

The fading 100% indication continues until the AC power cord is disconnected.

Charging the Internal Battery While Driving

The jump starter can also be charged while driving using an optional male-to-male 12V charging cable.

Required Accessory

Vehicle Charging Procedure

1. Start the vehicle engine.
2. Confirm that the engine is running.
3. Insert one end of the accessory cable into the jump starter’s 12V DC outlet.
4. Connect the other end to the vehicle’s 12V accessory outlet or cigarette-lighter socket.
5. Monitor the charging process.
6. Press the Display button twice to check the battery charge percentage.
7. Disconnect the charging cable when charging is complete.
8. Remove the cable from the jump starter first and then from the vehicle accessory outlet.

Important Vehicle Charging Warning

Do not charge the internal battery through the 12V vehicle charging connection for more than 30 minutes.

The jump starter must not be left unattended during this charging method.

Vehicle-port charging bypasses the charger’s normal maintain mode. The battery can become overcharged, creating a risk of explosion, injury, or property damage.

The charging cable must be completely disconnected when the vehicle engine is not running.

Connecting the Jump Starter to a Vehicle Battery

Battery clamps must be connected using the correct sequence for the vehicle’s electrical grounding system.

General Connection Precautions

Before connecting the clamps:

1. Turn off the vehicle ignition.
2. Keep the cables away from hot and moving engine components.
3. Check the positive and negative battery terminal markings.
4. Identify which battery terminal is connected to the vehicle chassis.
5. Make sure the clamp connections can be securely attached.

Battery terminals are commonly marked:

The positive battery terminal is usually larger in diameter than the negative terminal.

Connecting to a Negative-Ground Vehicle

Most vehicles use a negative-ground electrical system.

1. Connect the red positive (+) clamp to the positive battery terminal.
2. Connect the black negative (-) clamp to a heavy-gauge metal part of the vehicle chassis or engine block, away from the battery.
3. Make sure both clamps are securely connected.

The black clamp must not be attached to the carburetor, fuel lines, or thin sheet-metal body panels.

Connecting to a Positive-Ground Vehicle

For a positive-ground electrical system:

1. Connect the black negative (-) clamp to the negative, ungrounded battery terminal.
2. Connect the red positive (+) clamp to a heavy-gauge metal part of the vehicle chassis or engine block, away from the battery.
3. Check the connections before attempting to start the engine.

Do not attach the chassis clamp to fuel lines, carburetor components, or thin sheet-metal body parts.

Positioning the Battery Cables

The output cables must be routed away from:

• Engine fan blades.
• Belts.
• Pulleys.
• Moving engine components.
• Hot engine parts.
• Vehicle doors and hood edges.

If the vehicle hood needs to be closed, it must not damage cable insulation or contact exposed metal clamp components.

How to Jump Start a Vehicle

The jump starter must not be operated while its internal battery is being charged.

Important: A vehicle battery must remain installed during jump-starting. Operating the jump starter without a battery installed in the vehicle can damage the vehicle’s electrical system.

Jump-Starting Procedure

1. Turn off the ignition. The vehicle must be switched off before connecting the battery clamps.
2. Connect the battery clamps. Follow the negative-ground or positive-ground connection instructions for the vehicle.
3. Check cable positioning. Keep cables away from moving engine components and hot surfaces.
4. Attempt to start the engine. Crank the vehicle engine.
5. Limit the starting attempt. If the engine does not start within 3–8 seconds, stop cranking.
6. Wait before another attempt. Allow at least one minute for the battery to cool before attempting another start.
7. Disconnect after a successful start. Remove the black negative clamp first, followed by the red positive clamp, for the standard negative-ground arrangement.
8. Store the clamps safely. Attach the clamps to their designated plastic storage holders.
9. Recharge the jump starter. Recharge the internal battery as soon as possible after use.

Jump-Starting Safety Warnings

• Never allow the clamps to touch each other.
• Do not let the clamps touch the same piece of metal.
• Never attempt to jump start a frozen vehicle battery.
• Do not operate the jump starter while its internal battery is charging.
• Do not crank the engine longer than the specified starting period.

Five-Minute Connection Reminder

If the jump starter remains connected to the vehicle battery for more than five minutes, the unit produces four beeps.

This audible reminder indicates that the jump starter should be turned off and/or disconnected from the vehicle battery when it is no longer required.

Using the Jump Starter as a 12V DC Power Source

The DSR168 and DSR168G can supply power to compatible 12V DC accessories equipped with a 12V accessory plug.

This function can be used during power outages, camping, fishing trips, and other situations where temporary 12V power is required.

Connecting a 12V DC Accessory

1. Make sure the connected accessory is switched off.
2. Place the jump starter clamps securely on their storage holders.
3. Open the protective cover over the 12V DC socket.
4. Insert the accessory’s 12V DC plug into the socket.
5. Switch on the connected accessory if required.
6. Operate the accessory as needed.
7. Disconnect the accessory after use.
8. Recharge the jump starter immediately.

12V DC Outlet Overload Protection

The 12V DC outlet is protected by an internal circuit breaker.

The breaker disconnects the output when:

• The connected accessory draws more than 15A.
• A short circuit occurs.

If the circuit breaker activates:

1. Disconnect the connected 12V accessory.
2. Allow the breaker to reset.
3. The breaker automatically resets after a short period once the overload is removed.

The troubleshooting guidance specifies that resetting may take approximately one or two minutes.

Important Power Outlet Precaution

The 12V DC outlet is connected directly to the jump starter’s internal battery.

Operating a 12V accessory for an extended period can excessively discharge the battery.

The internal battery should be recharged immediately after powering external devices.

Estimated 12V DC Accessory Runtime

The following table provides estimated operating times for different 12V DC appliances.

The estimates assume that the jump starter’s internal battery is fully charged.

Actual runtime can vary depending on the connected device and the battery’s condition.

Extended operation should be avoided when it may leave the jump starter battery deeply discharged.

Digital Display Messages and Error Codes

The digital display communicates charging progress, battery status, and certain battery-related faults.

Display Indicator Guide

SUL Display Code

The SUL message indicates that the internal battery is sulfated.

The charger enters desulfation mode and attempts to recover the battery.

What to Do When SUL Appears

1. Leave the jump starter connected to the appropriate charging supply.
2. Allow the desulfation process to operate for up to 10 hours.
3. Monitor the charging status.

If the recovery process succeeds, normal charging resumes automatically.

The digital display returns to the cycling red dot charging indication.

F02 Error Code

The F02 code indicates that the battery could not be recovered through desulfation.

F02 Troubleshooting

The internal battery may be defective.

The battery should be inspected and replaced if necessary.

Battery servicing must be performed by qualified service personnel.

F01 Error Code

The F01 code indicates that the battery voltage remains below 10V after two hours of charging.

F01 Troubleshooting

1. Check that no external equipment is draining the internal battery.
2. Make sure any USB function is switched off, where applicable.
3. Disconnect external equipment from the battery clamps.
4. Disconnect devices from the 12V DC outlet.
5. Attempt to charge the jump starter again.

If no external load is connected and the battery still fails to hold a charge, the internal battery may be defective.

The battery should be professionally inspected or replaced.

F08 Error Code

The F08 code appears when the battery voltage drops below 12.2V for two hours or longer while the charger is in maintain mode.

F08 Troubleshooting

1. Check for connected accessories or equipment draining the battery.
2. Switch off any applicable external output functions.
3. Disconnect devices from the clamps and 12V DC socket.
4. Try charging the unit again.

If the fault remains without connected loads, the internal battery may not be holding a charge properly and should be checked or replaced.

Troubleshooting Guide

The following troubleshooting table covers starting failures, charging problems, accessory power issues, and battery faults.

Schumacher DSR168 / DSR168G Troubleshooting Table

Jump Starter Will Not Start the Vehicle

If the vehicle does not start:

1. Inspect the connection between the battery clamps and vehicle battery.
2. Check that the chassis connection is secure.
3. Clean the connection points if required.
4. Press the Display button to check the jump starter battery percentage.
5. Recharge the unit if necessary.
6. Have the vehicle battery inspected if the problem continues.

12V DC Accessory Does Not Work

If a connected 12V device does not receive power:

1. Check that the accessory is switched on.
2. Check the internal battery percentage.
3. Recharge the jump starter if necessary.
4. Disconnect the accessory if it draws more than 15A or has a short circuit.
5. Wait approximately one or two minutes for the internal breaker to reset.
6. Reconnect the accessory if the overload condition has been resolved.

Internal Battery Will Not Hold a Charge

If the internal battery does not accept or maintain a charge, it may be defective.

A qualified service technician should inspect the battery and replace it if required.

Digital Display Does Not Turn On During AC Charging

1. Check whether the 120V AC outlet has power.
2. Inspect the supplying circuit’s fuse or breaker.
3. Check the charging cable connection.
4. Inspect the power cord or extension cord for damage.
5. Confirm that plugs fit securely.

Damaged cords must not be used.

Maintenance and Cleaning Instructions

The jump starter should be inspected and cleaned after use.

Cleaning the Jump Starter

1. Disconnect the jump starter from the vehicle and external power.
2. Use a dry cloth to remove corrosion from accessible battery clamps.
3. Wipe dirt and oil from the clamps.
4. Clean the external cables with a dry cloth.
5. Wipe the outer case.
6. Check that the components remain securely attached and in good operating condition.

Maintenance Precautions

• Disconnect power before maintenance.
• Do not open or disassemble the unit.
• Do not attempt unauthorized internal repairs.
• Inspect cables and clamps for damage.
• Keep the battery clamps on their designated storage holders.
• Have internal servicing performed by qualified personnel.

Storage and Transportation Instructions

The jump starter must be stored indoors in a cool, dry location.

Storage Precautions

• Keep the unit protected from moisture.
• Store the battery clamps on their designated plastic holders.
• Never store the clamps touching each other.
• Do not attach clamps to the carrying handle.
• Do not allow clamps to contact other metal objects.
• Do not store clamps attached to cables.
• Protect the housing, cables, and clamps during transportation.
• Avoid storage locations where leaked battery acid could cause additional damage.

Warning: The jump starter clamps are live and can create sparks if they touch each other or the same conductive surface.

Battery Storage and Recharge Schedule

The internal battery gradually loses charge over time.

Self-discharge occurs more quickly in warm environments.

For prolonged battery life:

1. Recharge the battery completely before storage.
2. Store the jump starter in a cool, dry environment.
3. Keep the battery fully charged.
4. Recharge immediately after each use.
5. Recharge at least once every 30 days.

The manufacturer’s ideal storage temperature is approximately 70°F (21°C).

Leaving the internal battery discharged for extended periods can cause permanent battery damage.

Service and Replacement Parts

Internal repairs must be completed by qualified service personnel using identical replacement parts.

For repair requests, returns, and parts availability:

Limited Warranty

The Schumacher DSR168 and DSR168G are covered by a one-year limited warranty.

Warranty information can be obtained through Schumacher’s official website or customer support.

Warranty and Customer Support

Product registration is available through the manufacturer’s website.

FCC Compliance

The jump starter complies with the applicable FCC Part 15 Class B digital device requirements.

Changes or modifications not approved by Schumacher Electric may void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

If radio or television interference occurs, the following actions may help:

• Reposition the receiving antenna.
• Increase the distance between the jump starter and receiving equipment.
• Connect the equipment to a different electrical circuit.
• Consult a qualified radio or television technician.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How does the Schumacher DSR168 jump starter work?

The Schumacher DSR168 uses an internal sealed lead-acid battery to provide starting assistance to a vehicle. Its battery clamps connect to the vehicle battery and chassis according to the vehicle’s grounding system. The unit can also power compatible 12V DC accessories through its built-in power socket.

2. How is the Schumacher DSR168 charged?

Connect a suitable 18-AWG or larger AC power cord to the jump starter’s AC input and a live 120V wall outlet. The digital display shows a cycling red dot while charging. At full charge, the display reaches 100% and the unit enters automatic maintain mode.

3. How long does the Schumacher DSR168 take to charge?

The manual states that complete charging may take up to 48 hours for units equipped with two batteries. Actual charging time depends on the battery configuration and charge condition.

4. What does SUL mean on the Schumacher DSR168 display?

SUL indicates battery sulfation. The charger attempts to recover the internal battery through desulfation for up to 10 hours. If the process succeeds, normal charging resumes automatically.

5. What do error codes F01, F02, and F08 mean?

F01 indicates that battery voltage remains below 10V after two hours of charging. F02 indicates unsuccessful desulfation. F08 indicates that battery voltage has remained below 12.2V for at least two hours during maintain mode.

6. Can the Schumacher DSR168 be used as a 12V power supply?

Yes. The 12V DC outlet can power compatible accessories fitted with a 12V plug. The internal circuit breaker disconnects power if the accessory draws more than 15A or causes a short circuit.

7. Can the DSR168 be charged while driving?

Yes. A separately sold male-to-male 12V charging cable, part number 94500109, allows charging through a vehicle accessory outlet while the engine is running. Charging must not exceed 30 minutes, and the unit must never be left unattended during this method because it bypasses automatic maintain mode.

8. How often should the Schumacher DSR168 battery be charged?

The internal battery should be charged immediately after purchase, after each use, and at least once every 30 days. Keeping the battery fully charged helps prevent excessive discharge and permanent battery damage.