Balmar MAX CHARGE MC-614 - User Manual

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INSTALLATION AND OPERATION MANUAL
Introduction
The Balmar Max Charge MC-614 is the latest generation of
smart, multi-stage Balmar Max Charge voltage regulators.
Designed to provide precise voltage control for Balmar’s
high-output 12-volt alternators and other externally regulated P-type
alternators, the MC-614 features user selectable programs for the
following battery types: Deep cycle ooded, standard ooded, gel,
AGM, spiral wound AGM, and LiFePO
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batteries. The regulator
also features a universal default program that’s designed for use in
vessels utilizing voltage sensitive halogen equipment.
In addition to the user selectable preset programs, the MC-614
features a wealth of advanced programming modes which make it
possible to tailor charging to a wide variety of environments.
When used in conjunction with optional MC-TS-A and
MC-TS-B alternator and battery temperature sensors, the MC-614
features the ability to monitor and respond to a range of ambient
temperature conditions, including reduction or discontinuation
of charging voltages, should a catastrophic over-temperature
condition occur at the alternator or the batteries.
Safety Considerations
1. Always disconnect your battery banks
and ensure that switches are “OFF” prior
to installing your regulator.
2. Remove loose-tting clothing or jewelry,
which could become entangled in
your motor or other machinery prior to
installing regulator.
3. Wear ANSI-approved safety eye-wear
and protective gear.
4. DO NOT attempt to modify the regulator.
Modications could result in damage to
your charging system, and will void your
warranty.
5. DO NOT attempt installation if you are
tired or fatigued.
6. Ensure that the engine has cooled before
initiating installation.
7. DO NOT attempt regulator installation
while using alcohol or medication that
could impair your judgment or reaction
time.
8. Always use the right tool for the job.
Improper tool use may damage regulator
or your vessel, and could result in
personal injury.
9. Take time to read the manual. Equipment
damage and possible injuries may result
from an incomplete understanding of
the installation and operation of the
MC-614 regulator. If you are unfamiliar
with marine electrical systems, consult
with a licensed marine electrician.
MAX CHARGE MC-614
MULTI-STAGE
VOLTAGE REGULATOR
©2017 Balmar LLC SUP-0201 REV.C 12/12/17
Introduction 1 Basic Programming 10
Safety Considerations 1 Adjust For Battery Type 10
Regulator Installation 2 LiFePO
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Unpacking Box 2 Belt Load Manager 12
Locate/Mount Regulator 2 Display Mode 12
Basic Wiring Installation 2 Alt. Failure Advisory 12
Regulator Terminal Layout 3 Programming Flow Chart 13
Installation By Wire 4-6 Adv. Programming 14-15
Initial Start Up 6 Battery Equalization 16
Regulator Operation 7 Default Program Settings 16
Programming Display Modes 8 Add’l. Regulator Features 16
Regulator Programming 10 Troubleshooting 17-18
Using Magnetic Tool 10 Warranty 19
Table of Contents

Summary

Safety Considerations

Regulator Installation

Locate And Mount The Regulator

Basic Wiring Installation

Instructions for connecting the regulator's wiring harness.

Wiring Installation Details

Install BLACK Ground Wire

Install RED Power Wire

Install BROWN Ignition Wire

Install BLUE Field Wire

Install Alternator Temperature Sensor

How to connect the optional alternator temperature sensor (MC-TS-A).

Install Positive Battery Sense Wire

Instructions for connecting the positive battery sense wire.

Additional Installation Steps

Install Battery #1 Temperature Sensor

Connects the first battery temperature sensor to the regulator.

Install WHITE Stator-In And Tach-Out Wires

Install Battery #2 Temperature Sensor

Connects the second battery temperature sensor to the regulator.

Indicator and Testing Setup

Initial Pre-Flight Test And Start-Up

Procedures for pre-flight voltage checks before engine start.

Regulator Operation

Regulator Programming Modes

Using The Magnetic Reed Switch

Programming For Battery Type

Selects the correct program for different battery technologies.

LFP Battery Recommendations

Advanced Programming

Programming The Belt Load Manager

Adjusts field potential to manage alternator load.

Programming For Short or Long Display Mode

Programming For Alternator Failure Advisory Mode (BDL)

Advanced Programming Settings

Accessing The Advanced Programming Mode

Making Advanced Programming Adjustments

Battery Equalization

Troubleshooting and Testing

Regulator Troubleshooting

Steps to diagnose issues with the voltage regulator.

Voltage Regulator Testing

Procedures for testing regulator voltage outputs.

Alternator Testing

Balmar MAX CHARGE MC-614 Specifications

General

Type	Alternator Regulator
Alternator Compatibility	Most externally regulated alternators
Battery Type Compatibility	Flooded, Gel, AGM, Lithium
Temperature Compensation	Yes
Battery Temperature Sensing	Yes
Alternator Temperature Sensing	Yes
Multi-Stage Charging	Yes
Input Voltage	12V / 24V
Features	alternator protection
Display	LED indicators
Communication Port	Optional
Programming	Programmable via display or Bluetooth