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This document is the owner's manual for Minn Kota Onboard Battery Chargers, specifically models MK230, MK345, MK440, and MK460.
The Minn Kota Onboard Battery Charger is a powerful electrical device designed for charging and maintaining 12-volt 6-cell lead-acid batteries. It is suitable for FLOODED / WET CELL, MAINTENANCE FREE, and AGM / STARVED ELECTROLYTE batteries only. The charger is not intended to supply power to low voltage electrical systems other than for charging and maintaining batteries, nor is it for charging dry-cell batteries, which could cause them to burst and result in injury or property damage. The charger features independent output banks, allowing it to charge independent batteries or combinations of batteries hooked in series or parallel without disconnecting them from any switches or wires/straps. Each output cord is equipped with a temperature sensor that monitors external temperature and adjusts the charging profile to ensure full charge without overcharging or undercharging.
The manual provides a table of specifications for various models:
The charger is compliant with FCC PART 15, Class B, and is UL Marine Listed.
Installation: The charger should be mounted flush on a bulkhead in a protected area, away from rain or spray, and not above batteries to avoid corrosive gas damage. A minimum of six inches of unobstructed area should be allowed around the unit for proper air circulation. Mounting with nuts, bolts, and washers is recommended for security. When mounting to an aluminum boat hull, isolation (e.g., wood or plastic) is required to prevent contact and electrolysis. The charger is provided with keyhole slots and permanent mounting holes for secure installation.
DC Connection: The charger output leads must be connected with the correct polarity: RED to POSITIVE (+) and BLACK to NEGATIVE (-). Connections should only be made or disconnected after removing the AC plug from the electric outlet. For batteries outside a boat or vehicle, the same polarity rules apply. The manual emphasizes the importance of following connection procedures to reduce the risk of sparks and battery explosions. When batteries are connected in series (e.g., for 12/24V, 24/36V, 36/48V systems), the series connection wire should remain in place during charging.
AC Power Cord Connection: The charger is equipped with a grounded AC power cord and plug, which must be plugged into a properly installed and grounded outlet. Extension cords should be avoided unless absolutely necessary, and if used, must be properly wired and of the correct AWG size (e.g., 16 AWG for 25 ft, 14 AWG for 50 ft, 12 AWG for 100 ft). The AC connection to the charger should be made outside the battery compartment to reduce spark risk.
Operating Instructions: Once properly mounted and connected, plug the charger into AC power. Indicator lights provide status:
Safety Precautions: The manual stresses several safety warnings:
General Maintenance: Regularly check the battery charger for dirt, oil, and battery corrosion. Clean corrosion with a water and baking soda solution, then wipe with a dry cloth. Inspect ring terminals for dirt, oil, and corrosion, cleaning as necessary.
Storage: When not in use, coil the power cord to prevent damage. Store the battery charger in a clean, dry area.
Fuse Replacement: Each output cord has inline fuses on the RED and BLACK leads near the ring terminals. These fuses protect against surges and short circuits. If a fuse blows, replace it with the exact type and rating of the original fuse. Improper battery connections typically do not cause a fuse to blow as this is handled by the charger's internal circuitry.
Warranty: Johnson Outdoors Inc. provides a limited three-year warranty to the original purchaser, covering defects in materials and workmanship. The warranty does not cover commercial use, normal wear and tear, blemishes, or damage from accidents, abuse, alteration, modification, misuse, or improper care. Warranty service in the U.S. requires sending the charger (or parts) with proof of purchase to Minn Kota's factory service center. For chargers purchased outside the U.S., they must be returned prepaid to Johnson Outdoors Canada.
WEEE Compliance: Johnson Outdoors Inc. complies with EU Directive 2002/96/EC (WEEE) for the environmentally responsible disposal of waste electrical and electronic equipment. Products are marked with the WEEE wheelie bin symbol, indicating they should not be disposed of with household refuse but collected for recycling and recovery.
General| Brand | MINN KOTA |
|---|---|
| Model | MK230 |
| Category | Battery Charger |
| Language | English |
