Clore Automotive 4506
Clore Automotive CHARGE IT! Model 4506 6/12V (6/2) Amp Smart Charger Instruction Manual
Comprehensive guide for the operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your CHARGE IT! 4506 Smart Charger.
1. Introduction
The Clore Automotive CHARGE IT! Model 4506 is a fully automatic, microprocessor-controlled battery charger and maintainer designed for optimal charging and maintenance of various 6-volt and 12-volt battery types. This smart charger features a multi-phase charging process to ensure efficient and safe battery care, extending battery life and performance. It is suitable for use with AGM, Deep Cycle, Gel Cell, and Maintenance Free batteries.
2. Key Features
- Versatile Charging: Charges and maintains both 6-volt and 12-volt batteries.
- Dual Charging Rates: Offers 6 Amp fast charge and 2 Amp slow charge options.
- Multi-Battery Compatibility: Properly charges AGM, Deep Cycle, Gel Cell, and Maintenance Free battery types.
- Soft Start Mode: Built-in soft start mode for severely depleted batteries, protecting them from initial charge stress.
- Reverse Polarity Protection: Enhances safety by preventing damage from incorrect connections.
- Automatic Operation: Fully automatic operation simplifies use and optimizes charging.
3. Package Contents
Upon unpacking, please ensure all items are present and undamaged:
- (1) Clore Automotive CHARGE IT! Model 4506 6/12V Fully Automatic Battery Charger and Maintainer
- (1) User Manual (this document)
4. Setup
- Placement: Place the charger on a stable, flat surface. Ensure adequate ventilation around the unit.
- Power Connection: Plug the charger's AC power cord into a standard 120V AC outlet. The charger will perform a self-test and enter standby mode.
- Battery Preparation: Ensure the battery terminals are clean and free of corrosion. If charging a battery installed in a vehicle, ensure the vehicle's ignition is off.
- Connecting to Battery:
- Connect the RED (+) charger clamp to the POSITIVE (+) battery terminal.
- Connect the BLACK (-) charger clamp to the NEGATIVE (-) battery terminal.
- For vehicle batteries, connect the BLACK (-) clamp to a non-painted metal part of the vehicle chassis or engine block, away from the battery and fuel lines.
The charger features reverse polarity protection. If clamps are reversed, an error indicator will illuminate, and charging will not begin.

Figure 1: Charger connected to a vehicle battery. Ensure correct polarity.
5. Operating Instructions
- Power On: Once connected to the battery and AC power, the charger will automatically power on and begin its initial energizing mode.
- Select Voltage (6V/12V): The charger will automatically detect the battery voltage. If manual selection is needed, use the 'VOLT' button to toggle between 6V and 12V.
- Select Battery Type: Use the 'TYPE' button to select the appropriate battery chemistry (Standard, AGM, Gel, or Maintenance Free). The charger will optimize its charging algorithm based on this selection.
- Select Charge Rate (6A/2A): Use the 'RATE' button to choose between the 6 Amp fast charge or the 2 Amp slow charge. The 2 Amp rate is ideal for smaller batteries or for extended maintenance.
- Initiate Charging: Press the 'START' button to begin the charging process. The charger will display the battery's current voltage and percentage of charge.
- Multi-Phase Charging Process: The charger employs a proprietary multi-stage charging process to optimally charge and maintain batteries. This process includes:
- Energizing Phase: Initial mode to determine the best charging path.
- Soft Start Mode: Activated for deeply discharged batteries to protect them.
- Fast Charge: Delivers the bulk of the charge.
- Absorption: Gradually reduces current as voltage stabilizes.
- Completion: Final stage of charging.
- Resting Phase: Output is virtually turned off, monitoring battery condition.
- Exercising Phase: Introduces a load to simulate active use, then recharges to full.
- Restoring Phase: Final maintenance stage.
Video: Demonstration of the CHARGE IT! 12 Volt Fully-Automatic Smart Battery Charger in operation.
6. Charging Progress and Display Feedback
The charger features a digital display and LED indicators to provide real-time feedback on the charging process:
- Digital Display: Shows battery voltage (V) or percentage of charge (%). Use the '%' or 'V' button to toggle between these displays.
- Charging in Progress LED (Orange): Illuminates when the battery is actively being charged.
- Charging Complete LED (Green): Illuminates when the battery has reached full charge and is in maintenance mode.
- Polarity Error LED (Red): Illuminates if the battery clamps are connected incorrectly. Disconnect and re-connect with correct polarity.
- Error LED (Red): Illuminates if an internal fault or unsafe battery condition (e.g., short circuit) is detected. The charger will cease operation.

Figure 2: Front panel display and controls of the CHARGE IT! 4506.
7. Power Supply Mode
The CHARGE IT! 4506 can function as a stable power supply, providing up to 20 Amps of continuous power at 14.1 Volts DC. This mode is useful for maintaining vehicle system voltage during diagnostic work or when replacing a battery to prevent loss of electronic settings. To activate, select 'PS' using the 'VOLT' button.
8. Battery Reconditioning Mode
If the charger detects the presence of battery sulfation, it will automatically activate a reconditioning mode. This process uses specialized pulses to break down sulfate crystals that can build up on battery plates, which can reduce battery capacity and lifespan. The charging LED will flash during this mode, indicating the charger is attempting to recondition the battery.
9. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Keep the charger clean and dry. Wipe off any battery acid or other corrosive materials from the charger and cables immediately.
- Storage: Store the charger in a cool, dry place when not in use. Ensure cables are neatly wrapped around the unit's integrated cord management system.
- Battery Care: For batteries in storage, connect the charger in maintenance mode to ensure optimal battery health.

Figure 3: Side view showing integrated cord management and cooling vents.
10. Safety Information
WARNING: Risk of Explosive Gases.
- Always wear eye protection and protective clothing when working with batteries.
- Ensure adequate ventilation during charging to prevent accumulation of explosive gases.
- Never smoke or allow a spark or flame in the vicinity of the battery or engine.
- Do not charge frozen batteries.
- Do not attempt to charge non-rechargeable batteries.
- Always disconnect the AC power before disconnecting the battery clamps.
- Keep out of reach of children.
11. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Charger does not power on. | No AC power, faulty outlet, or internal issue. | Check AC outlet. Ensure proper connection. If problem persists, contact support. |
| Polarity Error LED (Red) is on. | Battery clamps connected incorrectly. | Disconnect clamps and re-connect with correct polarity (RED to POSITIVE, BLACK to NEGATIVE). |
| Error LED (Red) is on. | Internal fault, short circuit, or severely damaged battery. | Disconnect charger. Check battery for damage. If battery is severely damaged, it may not be chargeable. Contact support if charger error persists. |
| Charging is slow or not completing. | Incorrect battery type/rate selected, deeply discharged battery, or battery sulfation. | Verify battery type and charge rate settings. Allow more time for deeply discharged or reconditioned batteries. |
12. Specifications
- Model: 4506
- Brand: Clore Automotive
- Input Voltage: 120V AC
- Output Voltage: 6V / 12V DC
- Charge Rates: 6 Amp (Fast Charge), 2 Amp (Slow Charge)
- Battery Types: Standard (Flooded), AGM, Gel Cell, Maintenance Free
- Special Features: Multi-Phase Charging, Soft Start, Battery Reconditioning, Reverse Polarity Protection, Power Supply Mode (up to 20A at 14.1V)
- Item Weight: 1.1 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 8 x 7 x 4.5 inches
13. Warranty and Support
Clore Automotive products are backed by a manufacturer's warranty. For specific warranty details, including duration and coverage, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Clore Automotive website. For technical support or service inquiries, please contact Clore Automotive Customer Service.
Manufacturer: Clore Automotive
Model Number: 4506
ASIN: B004RTJOH0