Jump-N-Carry JNC550A - Jump Starter Manual

You have just purchased a world-famous Jump-N-Carry jump starter, preferred by professionals around the world for its powerful output, exceptional service life and rugged design. We have taken numerous measures in quality control and in our manufacturing processes to ensure that your product arrives in top condition, and that it will perform to your satisfaction.
In the rare event that your Jump-N-Carry contains a damaged or missing item, does not perform as specified, or requires warranty service, please call Technical Service at (913) 310-1050. Save your purchase receipt, it is required for warranty service.
This unit has a sealed lead-acid battery that should be kept at full charge. Recharge when first purchased, immediately after each use, and every three months if not used. Failure to perform maintenance charges may cause the battery life to be reduced greatly.

Features

• The Jump-N-Carry provides plenty of power for starting vehicles – more than enough to start most cars.
• The Jump-N-Carry will power and charge most small electronic devices via its USB output port.
• The Jump-N-Carry will power most 12VDC accessories equipped with a male 12 Volt plug. The DC outlet features automatic overload protection.
• The unit features a test switch and battery status display, which will provide a snapshot of the internal battery's state of charge.
• The Jump-N-Carry features convenient side-mounted holsters with cable tracks for easy cable and clamp management. Always re-wrap cables and re-holster the clamps after each use.
• The Jump-N-Carry contains the latest technology with its 12 Volt sealed, non-spillable battery and may be stored in any position.

Battery Status Indication

Press and hold the "V" (Voltage Status) Button to show the battery status on the display. The message seen on the display corresponds to the battery's state of charge:

• If the battery's voltage is less than 12.4V, the display will flash the voltage and then show CHG continuously, indicating the unit should be charged immediately.
• If the battery's voltage is between 12.4-12.8V, the display will show the battery's voltage and then flash CHG three times, indicating the unit is in need of charge.
• If the battery's voltage is above 12.8V, the display will alternately flash the battery's voltage and FUL, indicating that the unit is fully charged.

Recharging

Note: Upon initial purchase, charge your Jump-N-Carry until the display reads FUL.
Recharge the Jump-N-Carry using a household extension cord connected to the built-in charger in the back of the unit.

1. Connect the female end of the extension cord to the charger plug on the back of the unit. The charger plug has two blades and resembles a standard household plug that would fit into a 120 Vac wall receptacle.
2. Connect the male end of the extension cord to the AC outlet.
3. Charge until the dispay reads FUL.
   Note:The unit can remain connected to AC power indefinitely without adverse consequences. The charging system is fully automatic and will only consume power as need to maintain the onboard battery.
   Note: If the display shows Er3 when you connect an extension cord to charge, the internal battery is either damaged or too discharged to accept a charge.

Jump Starting Instructions

Safety Check List
Always Perform this Step Before Use to Ensure Safe Operation.

• Check to make sure that the clamps and cables are in good working order. Signs that the clamps may be damaged include, but are not limited to the following:
  • Burn Marks on the Jaws
  • Damaged clamp handles
  • Damaged clamp springs
  • Damaged cables where copper wiring may be exposed (insulation jacket deteriorated, cut or missing)
• Check to make sure the case is not swollen (a sign of damaged batteries).

Verifying these simple check points before every use will keep your jump starter safe to use and increase its service life.
Note: For optimum performance, do not store your Jump-N-Carry below 50°F when using as a jump starter. NEVER charge or jump start a frozen battery.

1. Use in a well ventilated area.
2. Shield eyes. Always wear protective eyewear when working near batteries.
3. Review this instruction manual and the instruction/safety manual provided by the manufacturer of the vehicle being jump started.
4. Turn vehicle ignition off and ensure unit ON/OFF switch is in the OFF position before making cable connections.
5. Clamp the positive (red +) clamp to the positive terminal on the vehicle battery (for negative ground system), or an alternate vehicle starting point as recommended by vehicle manufacturer.
6. Clamp the negative (black –) clamp to the vehicle ground (non-moving metal part, such as the vehicle frame).
   Note:If warning buzzer beeps, do not advance to step 7. Determine source of error. Display will show one of two error codes: Er1 – reverse polarity, Er2 – overvoltage (connected to a battery above 16VDC). Resolve the error source before proceeding to the next step.
7. Turn unit ON/OFF switch to ON position.
8. Make sure the cables are not in the path of moving engine parts (belts, fans, etc.).
9. Stay clear of batteries while jump starting.
10. Start the vehicle (turn on the vehicle ignition).
    Note: if the vehicle doesn't start within 6 seconds, let the Jump-N-Carry cool for 3 minutes before attempting to start the vehicle again or you may damage the Jump-N-Carry.
11. When the vehicle is started, being careful of moving parts, disconnect the negative (-) battery clamp from the vehicle frame and return it to its holster. Now turn the ON/OFF switch to the OFF position.
12. Disconnect the positive (+) clamp and return it to its holster.

Air Compressor Instructions

1. Remove valve stem cap and connect compressor hose to the valve stem.
2. Turn on the air compressor and use the gauge to monitor the tire's pressure.
3. Once the tire has reached the appropriate PSI (noted on the tire or in the Owner's Manual), turn off the compressor.
4. Disconnect the compressor hose and return to storage clip. It is always good practice to test the tire pressure with an independent and properly calibrated tire gauge.
5. Replace valve stem cap.

Note: The Jump-N-Carry air compressor features an overheating protection switch that could result in a temporary shut-down of the air compressor while in use, if recommended operating temperature is exceeded. After cooling, the air compressor will reset itself and resume normal operation.
Your air compressor is equipped with a permanently lubricated, maintenance free motor.
Never try to lubricate the compressor.

12 Volt DC Power

Your Jump-N-Carry is an essential tool for all who replace automobile batteries. Most vehicles have electronic components with memory, such as alarm systems, computers, radios, phones, etc. and when the vehicle's battery is replaced, the memory is lost. However, if the Male-Male Extension Cord is connected from the Jump-N-Carry to the 12 Volt outlet on the vehicle, the memory can be saved.
Note: To use the Jump-N-Carry for this purpose, the chosen outlet must be live whenthe vehicle is turned OFF. On some vehicles, 12 Volt outlets are deactivated when the vehicle is turned OFF.
Your Jump-N-Carry is also a portable power source for all 12 Vdc accessories equipped with a male 12 Volt plug. The DC outlet on the Jump-N-Carry has automatic overload protection.
When your Jump-N-Carry is used with a DC to AC power inverter, it can operate appliances normally powered by 120 Vac or 220 Vac. Recommended inverter for the portable power source is 400 watts maximum. For more information, contact your nearest Jump-N-Carry dealer.

USB Power

Your Jump-N-Carry features a USB outlet. To active the USB outlet, quickly press the Light Button on the control panel. You should see the USB status light, located next to the USB outlet, light green. This indicates the USB outlet is now powered.

LED Work Light

Your Jump-N-Carry is equipped with a high intensity LED work/flash light for use when jump starting at night or when additional light is needed to complete a task.
To turn the light on, press and hold the Light Button on the control panel for 3 seconds.

Performance and Temperature

Performance of your Jump-N-Carry will depend upon several factors:

• A good, solid connection between the Jump-N-Carry clamps and the battery and ground connections are a must. Moving the clamps back and forth while connecting to the battery will help create a better connection.
• Clean connections between your vehicle or equipment battery and its terminals are very important. For an optimal connection, corrosion (soft grayish-white buildup) on battery terminals must be removed. With the ignition turned off, disconnect the battery cables and clean the terminals and battery posts with a baking soda solution.
• All batteries are affected by temperature changes, and the small, lightweight battery in the Jump-N-Carry is more sensitive to storage temperature than a standard automotive battery. Temperatures below 70ºF decrease amperage output. The ideal storage environment is room temperature, or 68ºF.

Troubleshooting/FAQs

Q. What should I do if the Jump-N-Carry will not hold a charge?
A. Load test the battery. After fully charging the battery (see "Recharging" section), apply a 100 amp load (through the clamps) to the unit for a period of 6 seconds, while monitoring the battery voltage. The battery is good if the voltage at the end of the load is 9.5 Vdc or higher.

Q. What is the ideal use for the Jump-N-Carry?
A. The Jump-N-Carry performs strongly when a vehicle's battery needs an extra boost because a light or radio was left on, or when a vehicle has been sitting for a long period of time. The Jump-N-Carry will start vehicles without any other batteries present, but the primary use is for an extra boost.

Will the Jump-N-Carry start every vehicle?

A. No. In addition to a dead battery, a car may have other mechanical problems that would prevent the Jump-N-Carry from starting the vehicle.

How often should I recharge the Jump-N-Carry?

A. To maximize battery life, charging after every use is recommended. The Jump-N-Carry should not be left in a discharged state. The battery in the Jump-N-Carry has no memory problems and should not be treated as a rechargeable tool (cordless drills, camcorders, etc.).

Q. How many jump starts can I get from the Jump-N-Carry before recharging?
A. A large number of factors affect this answer, including the following: the length of time for each jump start, the charge level of the original battery, the length of time between jump starts, the temperature of the vehicles being jump started (winter cold makes for difficult starting), the size of the engines (4-cycl, 6-cycl, 8-cycl, etc.), the mechanical condition of the engine and starter, and more. These factors must all be weighed on an individual basis before an accurate answer can be given. It's feasible to get 10-30 starts (individual's results will differ) from a single charge, but this violates the rule of immediate charging after every use.

Q. After jump starting, can I leave the unit hooked to the battery to recharge the Jump-N-Carry while the engine is running?
A. No. Attempting to recharge the Jump-N-Carry by this method is not recommended. Vehicle alternators output anywhere from 25-125 amps. This charging rate greatly exceeds the recommended recharging rate for Jump-N-Carry. Charging by this method will result in overcharging the Jump-N-Carry battery, and may void the product warranty.

Q. What accessories can be used in the optional 12 volt outlet?
A. Any accessory up to 12 amps can be powered by the Jump-N-Carry. This unit is equipped with an automatic reset circuit breaker, should the current exceed 12 amps. At the same time, this limits any recharge current through the 12-volt outlet to 12 amps. One can power almost any 12-volt tool or accessory (examples: impact wrenches, fans, radios, cellular phones, navigation equipment, camcorders, emergency power, trolling motors, coolers, small refrigerators, etc.).

Can the Jump-N-Carry battery be replaced?

A. Yes, call Technical Service at (913) 310-1050 (U.S.).

Can the Jump-N-Carry be recycled?

A. Yes, the environment was one of our main concerns in the development and design of the Jump-N-Carry. Most battery outlets can dispose of this product at its life's end. In fact, your Jump-N-Carry contains a sealed, non-spillable lead acid battery and proper disposal is required by law. See Battery Removal and Disposal Instructions.

Q. I have a regular 10 amp battery charger, can I use it to recharge the Jump-N-Carry?
A. No, only the method reviewed in the "Recharging" section should be used.

Is the Jump-N-Carry goof proof?

A. No, jump starting instructions must be followed. Read and understand all safety and operating instructions in this manual and those found in the owner's manual of any vehicle being jump started before using your Jump-N-Carry.

Testing The Battery

After fully charging the battery (see "Recharging" section), apply a 100 amp load to the unit for a period of 6 seconds, while monitoring the battery voltage. The battery is good if the voltage is 9.5 Vdc or higher.

Storage

The Jump-N-Carry may be stored virtually anywhere, and in any position. However, take precautions to ensure that the positive and negative clamps do not come into contact with each other or a common metal surface. We recommend storing the Jump-N-Carry in the box in which it was originally received. Always be sure to re-wrap cables and re-holster clamps after each use and prior to storage. Always store the unit with the ON/OFF switch in the OFF position.

Safety Information

Failure to follow instructions may cause damage or explosion, always shield eyes. Read entire instruction manual before use.

This product can expose you to lead, which is known to the State of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm, and Vinyl-Chloride, Styrene and Acrylonitrile, which are known to the State of California to cause cancer. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.

	Read these instructions completely before using the Jump-N-Carry and save them for future reference. Before using the Jump-N-Carry to jump start a car, truck, boat or to power any equipment, read these instructions and the instruction manual/safety information provided by the car, truck, boat or equipment manufacturer. Following all manufacturers' instructions and safety procedures will reduce the risk of accident.
	Working around lead-acid batteries may be dangerous. Lead-acid batteries release explosive gases during normal operation, charging and jump starting. Carefully read and follow these instructions for safe use. Always follow the specific instructions in this manual and on the Jump-N-Carry each time you jump start using the Jump-N-Carry. All lead-acid batteries (car, truck and boat) produce hydrogen gas which may violently explode in the presence of fire or sparks. Do not smoke, use matches or a cigarette lighter while near batteries. Do not handle the battery while wearing vinyl clothing because static electricity sparks are generated when vinyl clothing is rubbed. Review all cautionary material on the Jump-N-Carry and in the engine compartment.
	Always wear eye protection, appropriate protective clothing and other safety equipment when working near lead-acid batteries. Do not touch eyes while working on or around lead-acid batteries.
	Always store clamps in their holsters, away from each other or common conductors. Improper storage of clamps may cause the clamps to come in contact with each other, or a common conductor, causing the battery to short circuit and generate high enough heat to ignite most materials.
	Use extreme care while working within the engine compartment, because moving parts may cause severe injury. Read and follow all safety instructions published in the vehicle's Owner's Manual.
	While the battery in the Jump-N-Carry is a sealed unit with no free liquid acid, batteries being jump started with the Jump-N-Carry unit likely contain liquid acids which are hazardous if spilled.

General precautions for use:

• Someone should always be within range of your voice or close enough to come to your aid when you work near a lead-acid battery.
• Have plenty of fresh water and soap nearby in case battery acid contacts skin, clothing or eyes. Protective eyewear should always be worn when working near lead-acid batteries.
• If battery acid contacts skin or clothing, wash immediately with soap and water. If acid enters eye, immediately flood eye with cold running water for at least 10 minutes and get medical attention immediately.
• Be extra cautious to reduce risk of dropping a metal tool onto a battery. It might spark or short circuit the battery or another electrical part that may cause explosion.
• Remove personal metal items such as rings, bracelets, necklaces and watches when working with a lead-acid battery. A lead-acid battery can produce a shortcircuit current high enough to weld a ring or the like to metal, causing a severe burn.
• Use the Jump-N-Carry for jump starting lead-acid batteries only. Do not use for jump starting dry-cell batteries that are commonly used with home appliances
  These batteries may burst and cause injury to persons and damage to property.
• NEVER charge or jump start a frozen battery.
• To prevent arcing,NEVER allow clamps to touch together or to contact the same piece of metal.
• Always keep the unit in the OFF position when not in use.
• Use of an attachment not recommended or sold by the manufacturer may result in a risk of damage to the unit or injury to personnel.
• When using the power extension cord, pull on the plug and never on the wire when disconnecting.
• Do not recharge the Jump-N-Carry with a damaged power extension cord. Replace it immediately.
• The Jump-N-Carry may be used under any weather condition – rain, snow, hot or cold temperatures.
• Do not submerge in water.
• Do not operate with flammables such as gasoline, etc.
• If the Jump-N-Carry receives a sharp blow or is otherwise damaged in any way, have it checked by a qualified service person. If the Jump-N-Carry is leaking battery acid, do not ship it. Take it to the closest battery recycler in your area.
• Do not disassemble the Jump-N-Carry. Have it checked by a qualified service person.
• The Jump-N-Carry should never be left in a completely discharged state for any period of time. Damage to the battery could be permanent, with poor performance as a result. When not in use, recharge every three (3) months.
• Always store, use and charge the Jump-N-Carry in an area where children cannot get to the unit.