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Section 6 – Troubleshooting and FAQ
1. Why should I buy a Tesla™ Turbo Start™ System?
Tesla™ Turbo Start™ is a multi-functional system that are ideal for support of 24 Vdc vehicles and aircraft and their
electronics/avionics on the bench. Tesla™ manufactures various systems of different sizes and capacities that are man-
portable, maintenance free and provide pure, dc power in a completely safe package. Designed for Military applications,
these systems are equally valuable in maintenance support at the main facility or in remote locations. They are easily
transported and air-portable. They will also provide 28.5 Vdc when the system is connected to the appropriate ac source.
2. How does a Turbo Start™ work?
The Turbo Start™ combines state of the art power conversion electronics with our proprietary “dry cell” batteries. The
system’s electronics incorporate an intelligent charging system for the cells. The cells are ideal for this application as they
are non-spillable, absorbed electrolyte dry cells that are sealed, maintenance free and safe for air transport.
3. How is Turbo Start™ used in Aviation Support?
There are many ways a Turbo Start™ will benefi t your operation. By using it for pre-fl ight testing, you will avoid depleting
the aircraft’s battery. You can start the aircraft’s engine with the Turbo Start™ as well. In the hangar, when connected to
ac power, the Turbo Start™ will provide 28.5 Vdc for avionics testing and will also recondition and recharge the aircraft’s
battery. Another benefi t is the ability to fl y with the Turbo Start™ aboard your aircraft. You may take the Turbo Start™
anywhere you travel, ensuring that you will always have power.
4. How much power will my Turbo Start™ provide?
Depending on the system, the Turbo Start™ will provide anywhere from 1500 to 3500 peak starting amps, 25 to 400
continuous amps dc and 23 to 96 hours of rechargeable power. See our website (www.teslaind.com) to determine the
proper Turbo Start™ for your needs.
5. Will a Tesla™ Turbo Start™ spool up a turbine engine?
Nothing will start a turbine engine faster or safer than the right Tesla™ Turbo Start™. Not only will it eliminate hot starts, but
it will extend the life of your starter, your engine and your battery while reducing maintenance. The Turbo Start™ senses the
impedance from the starter/generator. It then provides the exact power required throughout the start-up curve.
6. How many engine starts will my Turbo Start™ provide until it is depleted?
The Turbo Start™ back-charges, almost instantly, once the vehicle / aircraft is started and the generator is on line. This
“power fl ywheel” feature enables the Turbo Start™ to recharge itself right from the vehicle it started in less than 30
seconds. You can go down the line in your motor pool and start every 24V vehicle, without limit!
7. How do you prolong the life of the Turbo Start’s cells?
All you need to do is plug the unit in to the appropriate ac power outlet the system requires. AC power will recharge the
system and keep the cells healthy. Users who regularly plug the system in can expect to get 5-7 years from their cells before
they need to be replaced. The recharging system will not overcharge the unit or produce excess heat.
8. Is it waterproof?
Water-resistant but not waterproof (See Environmental Section).
6.1 – Frequently Asked Questions
Figure 5.2.1 – Warranty Void stickers Front and Back on the unit
5.2– Unit Servicing
This unit is a maintenance-free, sealed unit. No repairs outside of Tesla™ are authorized. Warranty will be
voided if unit is tampered with in any way including any damage to the WARRANTY VOID stickers located
on the case (see Figure 5.2.1 below). If the unit requires maintenance, please contact Tesla™ Customer
Service at (302) 324-8910. A Repair Request Form can be found in the back of this manual.
5.3 – Packaging and Shipping
Ensure proper packaging when returning the unit. Transport the unit only in a sturdy shipping crate or
Tesla™ Shipping Case. It is important to enclose the Repair Request Form. Seal the crate on all sides and
return it to Tesla™ at the address listed below. Please contact Tesla™ Customer Service at (302) 324-8910
with any questions or concerns.
TESLA™ INDUSTRIES, INCORPORATED
101 CENTERPOINT BLVD.
CENTERPOINT INDUSTRIAL PARK
NEW CASTLE, DELAWARE 19720
PHONE: (302) 324-8910 FAX: (302) 324-8912
Website: www.teslaind.com ♦ www.tesla1.com
Email: Tesla1@teslaind.com
Figure 5.3.1 – Tesla™ Shipping Case
5.4 – Storage
If unit can not be connected to ac power while in storage, we recommend to charge the unit once a year. The
shelf-life of 12 months is due to the battery /cells inside the unit. We guarantee the unit will hold 80% of its
charge for a period of 12 months without being recharged. When the GPU’s leave the facility, they are fully
charged and if they are to go into storage (without being used), they will maintain 80% of their charge after
12 months. The units has a life expectancy of 5 to 7 years, if maintained properly.
