NOCO Boost GB40 Jump Starter: An Overview
The NOCO Boost GB40 is a compact, yet powerful, lithium-ion jump starter designed for portability and ease of use. It’s capable of jump-starting cars, boats, trucks, and more; The GB40 provides a safe jump-starting experience with spark-proof technology and reverse polarity protection, making it accessible for most users.
Key Features of the NOCO Boost GB40
The NOCO Boost GB40 distinguishes itself with several key features that make it a valuable tool for vehicle owners. Its 1,000-amp jump-starting capability allows it to revive dead batteries in seconds, suitable for gasoline engines up to 6 liters and diesel engines up to 3 liters. The integrated USB power bank function lets you charge smartphones, tablets, and other USB devices.
Safety is paramount, with features like spark-proof technology and reverse polarity protection preventing damage to the unit and the vehicle’s battery. The built-in LED flashlight offers seven modes, including SOS and emergency strobe, for added safety and convenience in low-light conditions. The GB40 is lightweight and compact, making it easy to store in a glove compartment or trunk.
The manual override mode allows jump-starting batteries with critically low voltage. The device is designed for 12-volt lead-acid batteries and includes detailed instructions for safe and effective use. The GB40 can be recharged via USB, making it easy to maintain its charge.
Safety Precautions and Warnings
When using the NOCO Boost GB40, adhering to safety precautions is paramount to prevent injury and equipment damage. Always read and understand the vehicle owner’s manual for specific jump-starting instructions. Before use, confirm the battery’s voltage and chemistry to ensure compatibility with the GB40, which is designed for 12-volt lead-acid batteries only.
Never attempt to jump-start a battery that is not 12 volts. Wear appropriate eye protection and avoid contact with battery acid. Ensure the vehicle is in park or neutral and the parking brake is engaged. Connect the clamps in the correct polarity, red to positive and black to negative, to avoid sparks and potential damage.
If the clamps are connected in reverse, the red error LED will illuminate. Do not use the GB40 in explosive environments or where flammable materials are present. Disconnect the GB40 immediately after jump-starting the vehicle and do not leave it connected for extended periods. Store the unit in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
Jump Starting a Vehicle with the GB40
To jump-start a vehicle, connect the GB40 clamps to the battery terminals, ensuring correct polarity. Power on the GB40 and start the vehicle. Disconnect the GB40 immediately after a successful jump-start for optimal safety.
Connecting the GB40 to the Battery
Before initiating the jump-start process, proper connection of the NOCO Boost GB40 to the vehicle’s battery is paramount for a safe and effective jump. Begin by identifying the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals on the vehicle’s battery. The positive terminal is typically marked with a “+” sign and may have a red cover, while the negative terminal is marked with a “-” sign and may have a black cover.
Attach the red clamp of the GB40 to the positive terminal of the battery. Ensure a firm and secure connection. Next, connect the black clamp of the GB40 to the negative terminal of the battery. Again, ensure a solid connection.
It is crucial to verify that the connections are correct before proceeding further. If the clamps are connected in reverse, the red error LED on the GB40 will illuminate, indicating a reverse polarity connection. In this case, immediately disconnect the clamps and reconnect them with the correct polarity.
Once the clamps are securely and correctly connected, you can proceed to the next step of initiating the jump start.
Initiating the Jump Start
With the NOCO Boost GB40 clamps properly connected to the vehicle’s battery terminals, you’re ready to initiate the jump-start sequence. First, ensure that all of the vehicle’s electrical loads, such as headlights, radio, and air conditioning, are turned off to minimize the drain on the battery during the jump-start process.
Next, press the power button on the GB40. All the LEDs should illuminate briefly, indicating that the unit is functioning correctly. If the battery clamps are connected correctly, the white Boost LED will illuminate, confirming that the GB40 is ready to deliver power to the battery.
Now, attempt to start the vehicle. If the engine starts successfully, carefully disconnect the negative clamp first, followed by the positive clamp. If the vehicle fails to start after a few attempts, consult a qualified mechanic for assistance.
Once the vehicle is running, allow it to idle for a few minutes to allow the alternator to recharge the battery.
Using Manual Override Mode
The Manual Override mode on the NOCO Boost GB40 allows jump-starting batteries with critically low voltage (below 2V). This mode bypasses safety features, requiring extreme caution. Use only when the Boost LED doesn’t illuminate.
When to Use Manual Override
The Manual Override feature on the NOCO Boost GB40 is specifically designed for situations where a battery is deeply discharged, presenting a voltage too low for the GB40 to automatically detect and initiate a jump start. Typically, this applies when a 12-volt lead-acid battery has dropped below 2 volts.
In normal operation, the GB40’s safety mechanisms prevent it from delivering a boost to a battery it cannot properly assess. However, Manual Override bypasses these safety checks, forcing the unit to output power regardless of the battery’s condition. It’s crucial to understand that this mode should only be engaged when you are certain the battery is indeed a 12V lead-acid type and is simply too depleted to register.
Using Manual Override on a battery that is not a 12V lead-acid, or one that has internal damage, can lead to serious consequences, including damage to the battery, the GB40, or even personal injury. Therefore, it is imperative to consult the vehicle’s owner’s manual and the battery’s specifications before resorting to Manual Override. If unsure, seeking professional assistance is always the safest course of action.
Activating Manual Override
To activate the Manual Override mode on your NOCO Boost GB40, begin by ensuring the unit is properly connected to the 12-volt lead-acid battery you intend to jump-start. Attach the positive (red) clamp to the positive terminal and the negative (black) clamp to the negative terminal of the battery. Double-check these connections to confirm they are secure and correct.
Once the clamps are firmly in place, locate the Manual Override button on the GB40. This button is identified by a red exclamation point icon enclosed within a red circle. To engage Manual Override, press and hold this button for a continuous three (3) seconds.
Upon successful activation, the white Boost LED indicator will begin to flash on and off, signaling that the Manual Override mode is now active and the GB40 is ready to deliver a boost to the connected battery. It’s vital to remember that while in Manual Override, the GB40’s safety features are disabled, and it is now your responsibility to monitor the jump-starting process carefully. If the engine fails to start after a few attempts, discontinue use and seek professional advice.
Charging the NOCO Boost GB40
To ensure your NOCO Boost GB40 is always ready for use, proper charging is essential. The GB40 is recharged via its USB IN port, conveniently located on the unit’s end. To begin charging, utilize the provided USB cable, connecting the Micro-USB end into the USB IN port on the Boost.
The other end of the USB cable should be plugged into any powered USB charger. This can include a wall adapter, a computer USB port, or even a USB outlet in your vehicle. Ensure that the USB charger is providing adequate power for efficient charging.
During the charging process, the indicator LEDs on the GB40 will illuminate to display the current charge level. As the GB40 charges, the LEDs will progressively light up, indicating the increasing battery percentage. Once all the LEDs are solid and no longer flashing, the GB40 is fully charged and ready for operation.
It’s recommended to fully charge the GB40 after each use and to periodically check and recharge it every few months to maintain optimal battery health and performance. Avoid leaving the GB40 connected to a charger for extended periods after it’s fully charged, as this can potentially reduce the battery’s lifespan over time.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with its user-friendly design, you might encounter issues with your NOCO Boost GB40. One common problem is the “Boost LED” not illuminating, usually indicating a battery voltage below 2V. In such cases, the manual override function (detailed elsewhere) might be necessary.
If the Red Error LED illuminates, it signifies reverse polarity – meaning the clamps are incorrectly connected to the battery terminals. Double-check the connections, ensuring the positive clamp is on the positive terminal and the negative clamp on the negative terminal.
Another potential issue involves the GB40 not charging. Verify the USB cable and charger are functioning correctly by testing them with other devices. Also, ensure the USB IN port on the GB40 is clean and free from debris.
If the GB40 fails to jump-start a vehicle, ensure it’s adequately charged and that the battery connections are secure. The GB40 is designed for specific engine sizes, so confirm it’s suitable for your vehicle. If problems persist, consult the NOCO support resources or refer to the complete user manual for further guidance. Remember to always prioritize safety.
NOCO GB40 Specifications and Technical Details
The NOCO Genius Boost GB40 boasts impressive specifications for its compact size. It delivers a peak current of 1,000 amps, enabling it to jump-start gasoline engines up to 6 liters and diesel engines up to 3 liters. The internal battery is a 12-volt lithium-ion, providing substantial power in a lightweight package.
The GB40 includes multiple safety features, such as spark-proof technology and reverse polarity protection, ensuring safe operation. It also functions as a portable power bank with a USB port for charging smartphones, tablets, and other USB devices. Additionally, it features a built-in LED flashlight with seven modes, including SOS and emergency strobe.
The unit’s dimensions are approximately 7.7 x 3.2 x 1.9 inches, and it weighs around 2.4 pounds, making it easy to store and transport. It can be recharged via a USB port. The charging time varies depending on the power source. The operating temperature ranges from -4°F to 122°F (-20°C to 50°C). These specifications highlight the GB40’s versatility and reliability as a jump starter and portable power source.