| Author | Message | ||
     Grlryder |
I purchased the HD Battery Tender (Model 021-0123), but am unsure on how to use on my bike (05 XB12Scg). What's the differece between "Red Light Charging", and "Green Light Storage"? It appears to have two connectors. One set is round with a hole, and the other set has clamps. I assume I should use the clamps, but do I just attached them... +2+ & -2- on the bolts on the outside of the battery? One of the bolts (the +) seems to have a rubber cover over it. Also, in what order should I attach them, the charger unit, and the electrical outlet? OK, one more question...how do I know when to remove? I've read where you can overcharge the battery. Any assistance, or even step by step instructions would be appreciated. | ||
| Fasted |
the battery tender does just what it says.....it tends to the battery so you don't have to. it is specifically designed to NOT OVERCHARGE the battery when CONTINUOUSLY CONNECTED. the whole point is to leave the tender attached when not riding. whether for just a few days, or all winter long, plug it in and go worry about something else...your battery is protected the spring clamps are just jumper cables for the tender. attach the red(+)clamp to the positive(+)terminal on the battery FIRST. then connect the black(-)clamp to the negative(-)terminal of the battery. always attach the positive first, and the negative(ground)last. then plug the unit into the wall. battery hydrogen+sparks=hindenberg. the other connector on the charger is for a permanent pigtail connector. it is attached to the battery with the terminal screws. once again, pos on pos, neg on neg. the connector makes hooking up the charger to the bike dummy-proof, if installed correctly. as with any new device that comes with instructions, READ THEM. familiarize yourself with the device, its intended use, and how to make it perform as designed. this cuts down on anxiety and potentially expensive/dangerous problems. if your tender was missing the manual, tell the seller, and have them copy the instruction manual for you....everyone has a scanner/printer/fax in the office these days............. | ||
| Grlryder |
Thanks for the reply Fasted ~ very much appreciated. I do have the instruction packet, but its just too confusing. Do both the pigtail and clamps need to be used at the same time or can I just go with the clamps? | ||
| Fasted |
one or the other, not both.... ask one of your riding friends who is handy to help you install the pigtail....that will eliminate both hooking the clamps incorrectly, and spark probabilities as well | ||
| Bigdog_tim |
Griryder - I recommend installing the pigtail. I assume you only have one bike - and this will make it easy to charge/maintain the battery. Once you have the pigtail on - simply plug in the tender and no worries. I have 5 bikes in my garage. I have the pigtail installed on each of them. While I only have 3 different tenders (one from Harley, the rest Battery Tender brand), all spend their share on charging. As a result, I have not had to replace a battery (or better, been stranded because the battery failed) in years. Think of the clamp ons as an emergency thing - install the pigtail as a permanent thing. | ||
| Grlryder |
This helps a great deal! Thank you both  | ||
| Captainxb |
Grlryder, when you install the pigtail ends to the battery, route the rubber plug end down along the side of the battery and poke it out in the area next to the rear brake master reservoir. Then when you park your bike, you won't have to remove the seat to plug the tender in, just pull the rubber outlet out of the side gap under the seat! Works great for me. Cheers. | ||
| Grlryder |
Thanks for the TIP Captainxb - sounds perfect. ok, one more question...problem. I went to install the pigtails and upon unscrewing the + screw noticed a small white spark....at which time I stopped! Everything was off. Should I be removing a fuse or something before unscrewing the connections? HELP is appreciated Any other bike problems/fixes I attempt and usually have no difficulties but this damn battery thing is going to drive me crazy. | ||
| Justin_case |
Janine, when removing Battery cables always remove the ground side first. When installing, install positive side first. This eliminates the possibility of welding your wrench to nearby metal parts, not to mention burning your fingers. | ||
| Fasted |
to disconnect, take ground (-) off FIRST to reconnect, attach ground (-) LAST | ||
| Easy_rider |
Do the negative side first, but you still may see a small spark. There are a few items on the bike that are going to pull some juice all the time. The spark is visible proof that they can't be patient. The driving you crazy will be well worth it in the end. | ||
| Grlryder |
You guys are all very helpful and I appreciate it. One last question and I think we can close this thread: Is it ok to use an extention cord (three prong)? They advise against it, but I may have no choice unless I move my bike to the computer room...hmmmm, there's an idea |
