If the battery is still in the vehicle:
Connect RED to positive, then BLACK to a solid engine ground (not the negative battery post) to avoid sparking near the battery.
The official AutoCraft AC-60CR manual is no longer hosted by Advance Auto Parts for this discontinued model, but you can still find copies:
Post on forums like BobIsTheOilGuy, Reddit r/MechanicAdvice, or DIYCarForums — someone may have a scanned copy.
This report summarizes the features, operating instructions, and safety protocols for the Autocraft AC-60CR Battery Charger
, an analog automotive charger with engine start capabilities. Product Overview Autocraft AC-60CR
is a 12V manual/analog battery charger designed for regular and AGM lead-acid batteries autocraft battery charger ac-60cr manual
. It is primarily used for standard automotive charging and emergency engine starting. Harbor Freight Key Features and Specifications Charging Modes
: Features multiple output settings, typically including a slow charge ( ), medium charge ( ), and a high-current engine start mode ( or higher depending on variant). Compatibility
: Supports Regular (flooded/maintenance-free) and AGM batteries. Do not use with Gel batteries Analog Ammeter
: Displays the current drawn from the charger in real-time. As a battery reaches full charge, the needle should move toward 0A. Engine Start
: Provides a temporary high-amperage boost to jump-start a vehicle with a weak battery. images.thdstatic.com Operating Instructions Charging a Battery in the Vehicle Preparation If the battery is still in the vehicle:
: Ensure the vehicle is off and the area is well-ventilated. Connection : Connect the Red (Positive) clamp to the positive battery post first. Then, connect the Black (Negative)
clamp to a solid metal part of the vehicle chassis away from the battery.
: Select the appropriate battery type (Regular/AGM) and charge rate (e.g., 2A for slow/maintain, 10A for fast). : Plug the charger into a grounded AC outlet. Monitoring
: Since this is a manual charger, monitor the ammeter. Unplug the charger once the needle drops to zero or near zero to avoid overcharging. Using Engine Start Connect the clamps as described above. Set the switch to Engine Start
Wait for the specified duration (usually 3–5 minutes) to let the battery absorb a surface charge. Typical sections from the AC-60CR manual (for reference):
Crank the engine for no more than 5 seconds. If it doesn't start, wait 3 minutes before trying again to prevent the charger from overheating. images.thdstatic.com Safety and Troubleshooting Automatic Battery Charger
Here’s how you can obtain the manual:
Typical sections from the AC-60CR manual (for reference):
The Autocraft AC-60CR is a manual battery charger and engine starter typically used for 6V and 12V lead-acid batteries. Because it is a manual charger, it will not automatically shut off when the battery is full; you must monitor the charge and disconnect it manually to prevent overcharging and potential battery damage. Quick Setup Guide Automatic Battery Charger
Feature: Intelligent 6-Volt/12-Volt Dual-Voltage Compatibility
The Autocraft AC-60CR is designed with a versatile dual-voltage system, allowing users to safely charge and maintain both standard 12-volt automotive batteries and legacy 6-volt systems found in classic cars, motorcycles, and lawn equipment. This feature is managed by a manual voltage selection switch, ensuring the correct amperage and charging curve are applied to the specific battery type, preventing overcharging and optimizing battery longevity.
Sites like ManualsLib, ManualShelf, or ManualsOnline sometimes host older or rebranded manuals. Search “AC-60CR” there.