Vector START-IT Jump-Start System with 260 PSI Air Compressor

Owner's Manual & Warranty Information

Introduction

Congratulations on selecting the Vector START-IT Jump-Starter, Air Compressor, and 12 Volt DC Power Supply. This compact jump-starter offers significant energy capacity for its size, featuring a high-density, sealed lead-acid battery. Please read this guide carefully to ensure optimal performance and avoid damage.

A standard feature is a high-pressure, self-contained tire compressor with a lighted gauge, capable of inflating vehicle tires up to 260 PSI. It includes adapter nozzles for various inflatables like beach balls and rafts.

The Vector Jump-Starter is a durable, portable system for vehicles and boats with standard 12 Volt battery systems. It can start most vehicles without a host vehicle or AC power supply and serves as a safe, portable source of 12 Volt DC electric power for remote or emergency situations. It is also ideal for use with Vector 12 Volt DC cordless products and power inverters.

Key Uses:

  • Jump-start any engine system with a standard 12 Volt DC battery (cars, trucks, boats, RVs, etc.).
  • Operate 12 Volt DC devices such as fans, inflators, worklights, cellular phones, spotlights, TVs, radios, and more.
  • Operate certain 120 Volt AC accessories when used with a Vector 12 volt power inverter (sold separately).
  • Inflate truck and auto tires, sports equipment, and beach inflatables using the included adapter nozzles.

The system features LED charge indicators, a 12 Volt DC accessory socket, and can be recharged via a standard 120 Volt AC power source or a 12 Volt DC source.

Safety Information

General Warnings

  • ⚠️ Always ensure immediate assistance is available when working with lead-acid batteries.
  • ⚠️ Always wear protective eyewear. Battery acid can cause blindness or severe burns.
  • ⚠️ Risk of explosive gases during charging/discharging. Failure to follow instructions may cause property damage, explosive hazard, or personal injury.
  • ⚠️ An alarm indicates reversed polarity when connecting clamps to a discharged battery.
  • ⚠️ When charging from a 120 Volt AC outlet in wet areas, ensure the outlet is GFCI protected.
  • ⚠️ Keep electrical cords and outlets dry when charging near water to prevent electric shock.
  • ⚠️ Jump-start procedures should only be performed in a safe, dry, well-ventilated area.
  • ⚠️ Keep all clamps, cords, clothing, and body parts away from moving vehicle components when using the jump-starter near a vehicle's battery and engine.
  • ⚠️ Do not wear vinyl clothing when jump-starting, as friction can cause static sparks. Remove jewelry or metal objects that could cause short circuits or react with battery acid.
  • ⚠️ Always disconnect the negative (Black) jumper cable first, followed by the positive (Red) jumper cable (except for positive ground systems).
  • ⚠️ Never allow red and black clamps to touch each other or other metal conductors, as this can cause damage, sparks, or explosion hazards. Store clamps in built-in holsters when not in use.
  • ⚠️ Do not expose the battery to fire or intense heat, as it may explode. Protect exposed terminals with heavy-duty electrical tape before disposal to prevent shorting.
  • ⚠️ Do not smoke or use inflammable items (matches, cigarette lighters, etc.) while working on a vehicle's battery system.
  • ⚠️ Keep the unit out of reach of children.

First Aid

Skin Contact: If battery acid contacts skin, rinse immediately with water, then wash thoroughly with soap and water. Seek immediate medical attention if redness, pain, or irritation occurs.

Eye Contact: If battery acid contacts eyes, flush eyes immediately for a minimum of 15 minutes and seek immediate medical attention.

Product Operation

Charging the Unit

For maximum battery life, keep the unit fully charged. Recharge after each use and every two months if not in use.

120 Volt AC Charging

1. Plug the AC/DC adapter into a standard 120 Volt AC wall outlet.

2. Plug the barrel connector of the adapter into the unit's recharge port.

3. After the initial 24-hour charge, charge for at least 14-16 hours or until the green FULL indicator lights. Charge at least once a month when not in use. The unit cannot be overcharged using the AC method.

12 Volt DC Charging

Use the supplied DC/DC charging adapter. This method may not recharge the unit as effectively as AC charging and is recommended only when necessary.

1. Insert one end of the DC/DC adapter into a 12 Volt DC accessory receptacle on a vehicle or boat.

2. Insert the other end into the unit's 12 Volt DC accessory socket.

3. Charge until the green FULL indicator lights. DO NOT EXCEED 3-4 HOURS MAXIMUM.

Using as a Jump-Start System

The jump-starter has an automatic ON/OFF switch that only allows energy flow when proper connections are made. An audible reverse polarity alarm and a red LED indicate incorrect connections.

NOTE: The automatic safety switch and polarity alarms require the vehicle battery to have at least 2 volts when clamps are connected.

Step-by-Step Jump-Starting Instructions

  1. Turn OFF vehicle ignition and all accessories (radio, A/C, lights, cell phone, etc.). Place the vehicle in park and set the emergency brake.
  2. Remove booster clamps from their storage location.
  3. For NEGATIVE GROUNDED SYSTEMS (Negative battery terminal connected to chassis):
    • Connect the positive (+) red clamp to the vehicle battery's positive terminal.
    • Connect the negative (-) black clamp to a solid, non-moving metal vehicle component or body part (chassis). Never clamp directly to the negative battery terminal or a moving part. If the alarm sounds, reverse the connections.
  4. For POSITIVE GROUNDED SYSTEMS (Positive battery terminal connected to chassis):
    • Connect the negative (-) black clamp to the vehicle battery's negative terminal.
    • Connect the positive (+) red clamp to the vehicle chassis or a solid, non-moving metal vehicle component or body part. DO NOT CLAMP DIRECTLY TO THE POSITIVE BATTERY TERMINAL OR A MOVING PART.
  5. A 5-second delay is built-in after clamp connections are made to reduce sparking. Wait one minute after making clamp connections before attempting to start the vehicle.
  6. Start the vehicle. Do not turn the key for longer than 3-5 seconds.
  7. After the vehicle starts, remove the clamps (disconnect the frame or engine clamp first, followed by the battery cable) and return them to the storage location.

Connecting/Disconnecting Summary

Connect: Red clamp first, then black clamp.

Disconnect: Black clamp first, then red clamp.

CAUTION: If the engine fails to start, turn the ignition key off and try again later. The engine may be flooded. Recharge the jump-start system after each use.

Operating as a Portable Power Supply

1. Lift the cover of the unit's 12 Volt DC accessory receptacle.

2. Insert the 12 volt DC plug from the appliance into the receptacle.

3. Switch on the appliance and operate as usual.

CAUTION: Do not use this unit to operate appliances that draw more than 20 Amps DC.

12 Volt DC Operation Times

Table II - VECTOR® as a 12 Volt DC Power Supply
ApplianceEstimated Power Usage (Watts)Operating Time (hours)
Cell phone1120 (talk time)
Fluorescent light440
Radio, fan, depth finder924
Camcorder, VCR, spotlight1514
Power tools, bilge pump2410
Car vacuum802

NOTE: ALL TIMES ARE APPROXIMATE AND BASED UPON A FULLY CHARGED UNIT.

Emergency Worklight

The built-in worklight is controlled by a sliding On/Off switch. Ensure the lamp is turned OFF when the unit is being recharged or stored. The lamp operates efficiently for up to 114 hours on a full charge and is designed to last the life of the product.

Air Compressor / Tire Inflator

The built-in 12 Volt DC air compressor is suitable for vehicles, trailer tires, and recreational inflatables. It includes three different sized nozzles that attach to the standard tire valve connector.

The compressor can fill up to 3 average-sized tires before the battery requires recharging. To use, remove the air hose from its storage well and attach the appropriate nozzle. An On/Off switch on the rear controls the compressor and gauge light.

Tire Inflation

  1. Place the connector (chuck) on the valve stem.
  2. Push the connector toward the valve stem and close the thumb latch.
  3. Ensure the connector is fully seated on the valve stem before closing the thumb latch.
  4. Check pressure with the pressure gauge.
  5. When the desired pressure is reached, turn OFF the Compressor Power Switch.
  6. Open the thumb latch and remove the connector from the valve stem.
  7. Store the compressor hose and tire fitting in the storage compartment.

IMPORTANT: Always leave the thumb latch in the open position when storing the unit.

Inflating Other Articles (without valve stem)

Use one of the provided adapters (nozzles) for items without a standard valve stem.

  1. Open the hatch and remove the nozzles.
  2. Insert the appropriate adapter (e.g., needle) into the connector (chuck) and close the thumb latch.
  3. Refer to Table III for typical inflation times. Small items inflate rapidly.
  4. Insert the adapter into the item to be inflated and inflate to the appropriate pressure.
  5. Turn ON the compressor switch and inflate to the desired pressure or fullness.
  6. Turn off the compressor switch.
  7. Remove the adapter from the item.

Typical Inflation Times

Table III - Typical Inflation Times
InflatablesInflation Pressure (psi)Filling Time
Vehicle and trailer tires (155/80R 13")262.5 min
Vehicle and trailer tires (185/70R 14")304.5 min
Vehicle and trailer tires (235/75R 15")306.5 min
Vehicle and trailer tires (235/85R 16")5016 min
Bicycle tires (27" X 1" racing)1040 sec.
Football1324 sec.
Basketball920 sec.
Volleyball56 sec.

WARNING: Always follow tire manufacturers' recommendations for pressure on the item to be inflated.

Specifications

ModelVEC012APC
Boost Ampere450 Instantaneous Cranking Amps
Peak Ampere1200 Amps
Continuous Cranking250 Amps
Battery TypeSealed, high energy density, AGM, lead-acid, rechargeable, maintenance-free, 12 Volt DC, 17 Amp-hour
Area LightLong life, ultra bright LEDs
Booster CablesHeavy duty welding cable with 450 Amp copper clamps
Accessory SocketSelf-Resetting Breaker 20 Amps
Air Compressor260 PSI
GaugeLighted Analog
DC Charging Adapter12 Volt DC
AC Charging Adapter120 Volt AC (700mA, 12 Volt DC Output)
Reverse Polarity Detection2 Volts (min)
HEIGHT12.75 in. (32.39 cm)
DEPTH7.75 in (19.69 cm)
WIDTH11.0 in (27.94 cm)
WEIGHT16.4 lb. (7.44 Kg)

Warranty Information

Two Year Limited Warranty Program

This limited warranty program is the only one that applies to this product and sets forth all responsibilities of Vector Manufacturing, Ltd. There is no other warranty.

This Vector Manufacturing, Ltd. product is warranted to the original purchaser only, to be free of defects in materials and workmanship for two years from the date of purchase, at no additional charge. The warranty does not extend to subsequent purchasers or users. Vector Manufacturing, Ltd. is not responsible for damages exceeding the retail purchase price of the product. Incidental and consequential damages are specifically excluded.

This product is not intended for commercial use. The warranty does not apply to accessories or damage from misuse, incorrect installation, or connecting to improper polarity power sources.

Return/Repair Policy

Defective products (excluding accessories) may be returned postage prepaid to Vector Manufacturing. Products returned within 30 days of purchase will be replaced free of charge. Products returned more than 30 days but less than two years from purchase will be repaired or replaced at Vector Manufacturing's option, free of charge. New or reconditioned parts may be used for repairs. The repaired or replaced unit is warranted for the remainder of the original warranty period. The customer is responsible for shipping charges on returns after 30 days. Vector Manufacturing, Ltd. covers return shipping charges during the warranty period.

Limitations

This warranty does not cover accessories, bulbs, fuses, and batteries. It also excludes defects from normal wear and tear (chips, scratches, abrasions, discoloration, fading), accidents, shipping damage, alterations, unauthorized use or repair, neglect, misuse, abuse, failure to follow care and maintenance instructions, fire, flood, and Acts of God.

State Law Rights

This warranty grants specific legal rights. Some states do not allow limitations on implied warranty duration or the exclusion of incidental/consequential damages, so these exclusions may not apply. Purchasers may have other rights that vary by state.

Requesting Warranty Service

Contact Vector Manufacturing Technical Support by telephone, fax, or mail. Keep original packaging for shipping. When returning a product, include your name, address, phone number, dated sales receipt (or copy), and a description of the reason for return and product serial number. Efforts will be made to return repaired or replaced units within four weeks.

Warranty Activation

Complete the Warranty Activation Card and mail it to Vector Manufacturing. Enter "VEC012APC" as the Model and "Jump-starter / 12V DC power supply" as the Product Type. All Vector Manufacturing, Ltd. products must be registered within 10 days of purchase to activate this warranty. Mail the completed registration form and a copy of the original sales receipt to:

ATTN.: CUSTOMER SERVICE / VECTOR MANUFACTURING, Ltd.
4140 SW 28th Way, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33312

Warranty must be purchased within 10 days of product purchase date. Warranty is non-transferable and non-refundable.

Replacement Parts & Disposal

Replacement Parts

For replacement parts (batteries, nozzles, etc.), contact Vector Customer Service at (954) 584-4446 or toll-free (866) 584-5504.

Battery Replacement

It is recommended to return the unit to Vector Customer Service for battery replacement. Contact (954) 584-4446 or toll-free (866) 584-5504.

  • WARNING: Do not dispose of the battery in fire, as this may result in an explosion.
  • WARNING: Before disposing of the battery, protect exposed terminals with heavy-duty electrical tape to prevent shorting, which can result in injury or fire.
  • WARNING: Do not expose the battery to fire or intense heat, as it may explode.

Battery Disposal

This unit contains a maintenance-free, non-spillable, sealed lead-acid battery. This battery is fully recyclable and should be accepted at locations that accept common automotive starter batteries (e.g., municipal recycling centers, scrap metal dealers, automotive retailers). For more information on recycling, call toll-free (877) 288-7722.

PDF preview unavailable. Download the PDF instead.

VEC012APC MANUAL Acrobat Distiller 5.0.5 for Macintosh

Related Documents

Preview Vector Professional Power Station Instruction Manual
Comprehensive instruction manual for the Vector Professional Power Station, covering features, operation, safety guidelines, troubleshooting, and specifications for jump-starting, air compression, and AC/USB power output.
Preview Vector Professional Power Station Instruction Manual
Comprehensive instruction manual for the Vector Professional Power Station (PPRH5V). Covers features, safety guidelines, operation for jump starting, air compression, and power supply, along with maintenance and troubleshooting.
Preview VECTOR PPRH5V Professional Power Station Instruction Manual
Comprehensive instruction manual for the VECTOR PPRH5V Professional Power Station, covering features, safety guidelines, operation, troubleshooting, and specifications for jump starting, power supply, and air compression.
Preview VECTOR SS6LV Lithium Jump-Starter & USB Power Bank Instruction Manual
This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the VECTOR SS6LV Lithium Jump-Starter and USB Power Bank, covering safety guidelines, operating procedures, charging methods, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications.
Preview Vector VEC280 Rechargeable Inflator/Spotlight User Manual and Warranty
Comprehensive user manual and warranty information for the Vector VEC280 Rechargeable Inflator/Spotlight. Includes specifications, safety instructions, operating procedures, maintenance, and troubleshooting for this versatile 12V DC portable power supply.
Preview Vector SS6LV Lithium Jump-Starter & USB Power Bank Instruction Manual
Comprehensive instruction manual for the Vector SS6LV Lithium Jump-Starter & USB Power Bank, covering safety guidelines, operating instructions, charging procedures, care and maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications.
Preview Vector 733 Watt Lithium Power Station Instruction Manual
Comprehensive instruction manual for the Vector 733 Watt Lithium Power Station (VECLIPS4/VECLIPS6). Covers features, operation, safety guidelines, troubleshooting, specifications, and FCC compliance.
Preview Vector VT-50 XT Radio Test Report
This document presents the test results for the Vector VT-50 XT radio, including parameters such as transmitter power, receiver sensitivity, power consumption, and audio characteristics. It details measurements against specified standards and provides an overall assessment.