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Q&A for How to Hook Up a Battery Charger

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Question

I have a tri-power charger, will it work?

Community Answer

Yes, the first stage is Bulk Charge, the second stage is topping or Trickle Charge and the third stage is Float/maintenance Charge. Usually, those units are 1.25 amp and take at least 24 hours to bring a battery up to good charge level. Sometimes they have an "analyze" portion when you first connect to the battery to make sure it's not sulfated or shorted.

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Question

Can I connect the charger to the battery without disconnecting the battery from the car connections?

Community Answer

Yes, but always connect positive first, and the negative battery charger clips to the engine block to prevent explosions and injuries.

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Question

What do I do if there is no post on the battery?

Community Answer

Check the owner's manual for instructions or visit your local battery supply store for direction.

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Question

what do I hook up first, the charger to the battery, or the AC to the charger?

Community Answer

From every set of directions I've read, you connect the AC to the charger - or charger to the AC - before connecting the charger to the battery - or the battery to the charger.

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Question

I hooked a charger to my truck and now my fuse box is clicking. What could be wrong?

Community Answer

You likely shouldn't be charging the battery while installed in your truck. Not all vehicles electrical systems are created equal. The clicking is likely a relay getting energized in reverse.

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Question

In what order do I need to connect the charger cables to the battery and in what order should I remove them when I am finished charging?

Community Answer

First, put the negative cable (black) on. Then, affix the positive cable (red). After charging, remove the positive cable first.

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