Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the safe and effective use of your XL Perform Tools 553986 Intelligent Car Battery Charger. This automatic charger is designed for charging and maintaining 6V and 12V lead-acid batteries (Wet, VRLA, AGM, EFB, Gel, MF) and 12.8V LiFePO4 lithium batteries with capacities between 3Ah and 75Ah. It features a microprocessor-managed 9-step charging process, a digital backlit display, and a 12V battery repair function.
Please read this manual thoroughly before operating the device to ensure proper usage and to prevent damage or injury.
Safety Information
WARNING: Improper use can result in electric shock, fire, or serious injury. Always follow these safety guidelines:
- Read all instructions before use.
- Ensure the charger is disconnected from the power supply before making or breaking connections to the battery.
- Use the charger in a well-ventilated area.
- Avoid sparks or flames near the battery, as batteries can produce explosive gases.
- Wear eye protection and protective clothing when working with batteries.
- Do not expose the charger to rain or excessive moisture.
- Do not charge frozen batteries.
- Keep out of reach of children.
- This appliance is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge, unless they have been given supervision or instruction concerning use of the appliance by a person responsible for their safety.
- The charger is equipped with protection against overcharging, reverse polarity, short circuit, overheating, and sparks. However, always ensure correct connections.
Product Overview
The XL Perform Tools 553986 is an intelligent battery charger designed for versatility and safety. It features a digital display for monitoring charging status and various modes for different battery types.

Figure 1: Front view of the XL Perform Tools 553986 Intelligent Car Battery Charger, showing the digital display, control buttons, and battery clamps.
Key Features:
- Automatic Charging: Microprocessor-controlled 9-step charging process.
- Digital Display: Backlit display shows functions, charging data, and charge level.
- Battery Compatibility: Supports 6V and 12V lead-acid batteries (Wet, VRLA, AGM, EFB, Gel, MF) and 12.8V LiFePO4 lithium batteries.
- Battery Repair Function: Dedicated function for 12V batteries.
- Safety Protections: Overcharging, reverse polarity, short circuit, overheating, and spark protection.
- Mounting: Built-in hook for wall mounting.
Components:
- Charger Unit
- AC Power Cord (145 cm length)
- Battery Clamps with Cables (148 cm length)
- Digital Display
- Control Buttons (Start/Stop, Voltage, Type, Record)
Setup
Before connecting the charger, ensure the battery is clean and free of corrosion. Verify the battery type and voltage to select the appropriate charging mode.
- Positioning the Charger: Place the charger on a stable, flat surface or use the built-in hook for wall mounting. Ensure it is in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and moisture.
- Connecting to the Battery:
- Connect the red (+) clamp to the positive (+) terminal of the battery.
- Connect the black (-) clamp to the negative (-) terminal of the battery.
- For batteries installed in a vehicle, connect the black (-) clamp to the vehicle chassis away from the battery and fuel line, if the negative terminal is connected to the chassis. If the negative terminal is not connected to the chassis, connect the black (-) clamp directly to the negative terminal.
- Connecting to Power: Plug the AC power cord into a standard electrical outlet. The charger's display will illuminate.

Figure 2: The charger connected to a 12V car battery, demonstrating proper clamp attachment.
Operating Instructions
Once connected, the charger will automatically detect the battery voltage. You may need to manually select the battery type and charging mode.
- Initial Display: Upon power-up, the display will show the detected voltage and default charging mode.
- Selecting Voltage (V button): Press the 'V' button to cycle between 6V and 12V modes for lead-acid batteries. The charger will automatically detect the voltage, but manual selection might be necessary for deeply discharged batteries. For 12.8V LiFePO4 batteries, select the dedicated lithium mode.
- Selecting Battery Type (T button): Press the 'T' button to select the appropriate battery type (e.g., AGM, Gel, Wet, LiFePO4). The charger will adjust its charging algorithm accordingly.
- Starting/Stopping Charge (Start/Stop button): Press the 'Start/Stop' button to initiate or pause the charging process. The display will show charging progress, voltage, and current.
- Battery Repair Function (Record button): For 12V lead-acid batteries that are deeply discharged or sulfated, press the 'Record' button to activate the repair function. This mode uses a specialized pulse charge to attempt to restore battery capacity. This function is not for LiFePO4 batteries.
- Monitoring Charge: The digital display provides real-time information on the charging process, including current voltage, charge percentage, and selected mode.
- Charge Completion: The charger will automatically switch to a maintenance (float) mode once the battery is fully charged, preventing overcharging. The display will indicate 100% charge.
- Disconnecting the Charger:
- First, unplug the AC power cord from the electrical outlet.
- Then, disconnect the black (-) clamp from the battery or vehicle chassis.
- Finally, disconnect the red (+) clamp from the battery terminal.
Charging Current Options:
The charger offers different charging current levels (0.8A, 2A, 4A) depending on the battery size and selected mode. The charger will automatically select the optimal current based on the battery's state and type, but some modes might allow manual adjustment or indicate the current being used.
Maintenance
Proper maintenance ensures the longevity of your charger and optimal performance.
- Cleaning: Disconnect the charger from power and battery before cleaning. Wipe the exterior with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use solvents or abrasive cleaners.
- Storage: Store the charger in a cool, dry place when not in use. Keep cables neatly coiled to prevent damage.
- Cable Inspection: Regularly inspect the power cord and battery cables for any signs of damage, such as cuts, fraying, or exposed wires. Do not use the charger if cables are damaged.
- Battery Terminals: Ensure battery terminals are clean and free of corrosion before connecting the charger.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your charger, refer to the following common problems and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Charger does not power on. | No AC power; faulty outlet; damaged power cord. | Check power outlet with another device. Inspect power cord for damage. Ensure charger is properly plugged in. |
| Charger not charging battery. | Incorrect battery connection; wrong mode selected; battery too deeply discharged; faulty battery. | Verify positive and negative clamp connections. Ensure correct voltage and battery type are selected. For deeply discharged 12V batteries, try the repair function. Test battery with a multimeter. |
| Display shows error code or warning. | Reverse polarity; short circuit; overheating. | Disconnect charger immediately. Check clamp connections for reverse polarity. Ensure clamps are not touching each other. Allow charger to cool down if overheating is suspected. |
| Battery not fully charging. | Incorrect battery type selected; battery capacity too large for charger; faulty battery. | Confirm the correct battery type is selected. Ensure battery capacity is within the 3-75Ah range. A very old or damaged battery may not accept a full charge. |
If the problem persists after attempting these solutions, contact customer support.
Specifications
Detailed technical specifications for the XL Perform Tools 553986 Intelligent Car Battery Charger.
- Model Number: 553986
- Input Voltage: Standard AC (details not specified, assumed 220-240V for EU market)
- Nominal Output Voltage: 6V, 12V (for lead-acid); 12.8V (for LiFePO4)
- Charging Current: 0.8A, 2A, 4A
- Battery Capacity Range: 3Ah to 75Ah
- Compatible Battery Types:
- 6V & 12V Lead-Acid (Wet, VRLA, AGM, EFB, Gel, MF, Ca/Ca, Pb/Ca)
- 12.8V Lithium (LiFePO4)
- Protection Features: Overcharging, Reverse Polarity, Short Circuit, Overheating, Sparks
- Dimensions (excluding cables): 200 x 95 x 51 mm (7.87 x 3.74 x 2.01 inches)
- Weight: 690 g (1.52 lbs)
- AC Power Cord Length: 145 cm (57.1 inches)
- Pliers Cable Length: 148 cm (58.3 inches)
- Certifications: CE

Figure 3: Diagram showing the dimensions of the charger unit and the lengths of the power and clamp cables.

Figure 4: Visual representation of battery types compatible with the charger, including 6V/12V lead-acid (Pb/Ca, Ca/Ca, Wet, VRLA, AGM, EFB, GEL, MF) and 12.8V Lithium (LiFePO4).
Warranty and Support
For warranty information or technical support, please refer to the documentation included with your purchase or contact the manufacturer directly. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
Manufacturer: IMPEX SAS
For further assistance, please visit the XL Perform Tool brand page or contact your retailer.