Tool Review: Clore PRO-LOGIX 12/24V Flashing Power Supply and HD Battery Charger, No. PL6850
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Q: How did the tool/equipment function as far as saving you time?
A: This tool saved me time by keeping battery voltage at or above a certain level during control unit software updates. By keeping steady battery voltage during these procedures, this product helped me ensure software updates would go through the first time around.
Q: What kind of setup was involved before using the product?
A: The setup involved hooking up the positive and negative cables to the charger and plugging in the power cord to the back of the unit. I also installed the supplied carrying handle and brackets. These brackets use the same screws that secure the sheet metal on the sides.
Q: How easy was it to use?
A: It was straightforward to use. The button layout, digital readout, and indicator lights made it quite easy to determine mode selection, charging rate, and battery voltage.
Q: How was its packaging? Did it come with any accessories?
A: Packaging was sufficient to protect the charger during shipping. A carrying handle was included as an accessory.
Q: Was there a manual included? If so, did you use the manual, and was the manual easy to understand?
A: Yes, a PDF copy of the manual was included. I used the manual to understand the specifics of how some of the features worked. The manual was written in a way that was easy to comprehend.
Q: What features did you like?
A: I liked the power supply feature for use during software updates/programming. The carrying handle is definitely a plus as it makes transporting the unit around the shop light work. The “soft start” mode to properly charge deeply discharged batteries seems useful, though I have not yet had the opportunity to try out that feature.
Q: Is there any way you could think to improve or add to this tool?
A: An engine start feature would be a nice addition to this tool. Otherwise, I'm happy with what the PL6850 has to offer.
Q: What types of jobs/repairs did you use this tool for? Please provide a few specific examples.
A: I used this tool on vehicles affected by recall campaigns that involved performing software updates.
Q: How does this tool compare to other tools you’ve used like it?
A: I have used a co-worker’s Blue-Point EEBC-FLASH benchtop charger in the past, which has a similar display/button layout. The PRO-LOGIX PL6850 matched or exceeded the other charger in terms of performance and capabilities.
Q: On a scale of 1 to 10, how would you rate this tool overall? Why?
A: I would rate this tool a 10 due to the abundance of features and its dependability thus far.
The PRO-LOGIX 12/24V Flashing Power Supply and HD Battery Charger, No. PL6850, from Clore Automotive, provides high current stable power for advanced module reprogramming on late model ICE, hybrid, and electric vehicles. It can properly charge a variety of lead-acid battery types and manage depleted and sulfated batteries. It features an automatic charging mode for easy operation, 120A max charge for speedy fleet service, and precise voltage control in 0.1V increments. It keeps voltage ripple to a minimum and uses rapid load responsive technology to minimize voltage drops to deliver clean power that will not disrupt reprogramming. The PL6850 comes with extra-long 13' cables to reach all vehicle starting points.
About the Author
Benedict Grubner
Express technician at Mercedes Benz of Burlington
Benedict Grubner is a part-time express technician at Mercedes Benz of Burlington, located in Burlington, Massachusetts. He has served in this position since 2019. His credentials include Massachusetts non-commercial vehicle and 7D vehicle state inspection licenses. He is ASE A5, A6, A7, and A8 certified and also holds a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Massachusetts Lowell. Grubner focuses on performing quality work while valuing continuous learning to thrive in an evolving industry. He also has another position in the machine shop equipment repair and maintenance field.