podRUNNER Star-Runner User manual

Star-Runner™ Owner’s Manual
1
PodRunner® by Rescue 42, Inc.
PO Box 1242 Chico, CA 95927
Toll Free: [phone] / Business: [phone]
www.ThePodRunner.com
Star-Runner™ Owner’s Manual
June 2017

Star-Runner™ Owner’s Manual
2
PodRunner® by Rescue 42, Inc.
PO Box 1242 Chico, CA 95927
Toll Free: [phone] / Business: [phone]
www.ThePodRunner.com
STOP!
READ THESE WARNINGS BEFORE USING STAR-RUNNER™
Failure to follow these instructions or heed these warnings may cause damage to the PodRunner®
unit, your vehicle or other property, cause bodily injury or death, and void your warranty.
•Always make sure that all components are mounted and fully are secure. Straps should be inspected frequently for proper tension and
wear. Replace straps immediately if damaged.
•Always properly store antennas when transporting your PodRunner®. Failure to do so can cause damage to the antennas and
bulkhead fittings, or result in injury.
•Always make sure that all door latches are fully engaged prior to transporting.
•Never use the desk top as a step or seat. Damage to the Pod or injury could occur.
•Always refer to the PodRunner®Owner’s Manual for questions related to mounting and use of your PodRunner®system.
System Setup
All system components have been tested for functionality, however, due to regional differences and personal
preference your Star-Runner™ will require a simple initial set up specific to your site. During the initial set up, we
recommend plugging the system into an external 110v power source via the shore outlet located inside the
generator cabinet in the upper right corner. Flip the main lighted power rocker switch located in the lower right
corner of the unit into the “on” position.
Power Control Module
The onboard Power Control Module (PCM) is a full-featured power distribution unit. On the front panel you will find a
master power switch, USB power ports, 12V accessory port, AC outlet, LED lighting switches, a digital voltmeter, and
charging switch for vehicle or shore power. On the rear of the PCM you will find a main battery disconnect switch.
Inside the PCM you will find a 60 Amp battery conditioner and charger, dual 26AH AGM sealed deep cycle batteries,
and a DC power fuse block for additional accessories.
The main power switch controls all peripheral devices such as inverter and lighting; however, even in the off position
you are able to charge the batteries via vehicle connection or the enclosures shore inlet.
Charging Batteries
Shore Inlet: To charge the onboard batteries via shore inlet connect external 110VAC through bulkhead located in
the generator compartment. This can be supplies either by the onboard generator or an external source using the
power cord supplied. We recommend a grounded heavy duty power cord of no less than 14 gauge and rated for
outdoor use. Check the charging switch is flipped into the “Shore” position. To verify the batteries are being charged
you may flip the main power switch on and verify the voltmeter is reading at least 13.1V. The conditioner will alter
its charging state depending on the charge level of the batteries and can read as high as 14.4V for a quick charge.
Vehicle Power: Using the harness provided, you may charge your Star-Runner™ from a 7-Pin blade trailer jack.
Connect the large threaded connector to the bulkhead on the enclosure, if you will also be transporting your unit at
the same time ensure to connect the 4-pin flat connector to the chassis for running and brake lights. Ensure the
charging switch on the PCM is flipped to the “Vehicle” position. This circuit is fused at 20A. The location of this fuse
is right inside the enclosure next to the vehicle bulkhead connector. To verify the batteries are being charged; first
ensure the vehicle is running. Then flip the main power switch on and make sure the voltage reading on the
voltmeter is above 13V. This reading may vary depending on the vehicle and output of the vehicles alternator.

Star-Runner™ Owner’s Manual
3
PodRunner® by Rescue 42, Inc.
PO Box 1242 Chico, CA 95927
Toll Free: [phone] / Business: [phone]
www.ThePodRunner.com
Vehicle charging is recommended only when batteries are known to be healthy. If the fuse is blown due to low
charged batteries, it is recommended to charge via the shore inlet for a period of time until batteries are above
50%. Verify the blown fuse was not due to a short in the wiring before replacement with another 20 amp ATC/ATOF
fuse.
Battery Care
At least every month check the voltage status of the batteries. It is recommended to also charge via shore inlet at
this time until batteries are fully charged. Use the following chart to know the status of your batteries:
% Charge
Voltage
100
12.8+
75
12.6
50
12.3
25
12.0
0
11.8
Do not allow the batteries to drop below 12.2V or battery damage and decreased life will begin. To get a proper
reading with the onboard voltmeter, turn off all peripheral devices including the onboard inverter.
Battery Kill Switch
On the rear of the PCM is a master battery disconnect. This is to be used when one or both of the batteries have a
dead cell or no longer hold a charge, or when replacing the batteries. If one or both of the batteries are no longer
functioning properly, by bypassing them you can still have a fully operational unit by disconnecting them and using
the battery conditioner as a 60 Amp 12V power supply powered via the shore inlet.
Battery Replacement
Over time the batteries will develop a diminished storage capacity or experience complete failure. When this occurs,
you will need to replace the battery or batteries in your workstation. The batteries that are factory installed in your
Star-Runner™ are Duracell 12VDC 26Ah AGM Deep Cycle batteries. We recommend that you reinstall the same
battery model if available. If a direct replacement is not available, the replacement battery must have the same
dimensions to fit in the battery tray, as well as be the same capacity, and type of the pairing battery or serious
damage, explosion or injury could result!
To replace the onboard batteries, first switch the battery disconnect to “OFF”, then remove at least 4U rack spaces
of equipment or drawers directly above the PCM. Unscrew the two front button head screws holding the lid in place.
Remove the PCM lid by lifting up slightly to clear the front lip and pull towards the front to release the rear tab locks.
Disconnect battery wiring at each of the terminals. At this point verify which battery needs to be replaced if only one
is bad.
Before lifting the battery out of the box, check to make certain no wires or power leads will be
smashed or pulled during the removal process.
Remove and replace the battery with an exact replacement. If the same size, capacity, voltage, and type are not
identical explosion or serious injury could result! Please recycle the battery according to your local agency disposal
regulations. Reconnect the battery ensuring it is wired in parallel. Replace the lid, two lid screws, and all removed
equipment.

Star-Runner™ Owner’s Manual
4
PodRunner® by Rescue 42, Inc.
PO Box 1242 Chico, CA 95927
Toll Free: [phone] / Business: [phone]
www.ThePodRunner.com
Pure Sine Wave Inverter
The onboard inverter is a 400W continuous, 800W peak pure sine wave to ensure smooth power for all sensitive
equipment. Upon shutdown of the PCM you will hear a buzz from the inverter indicating a low-voltage, this is normal
and will quickly fade after a second or two.
To bypass the inverter or if your requirements are greater than 400W, you may plug the power strip in the rear of
the enclosure directly into the onboard generator.
DC Fused Power Block
Located inside the PCM is a 4 post fuse block for 12V DC accessories. In order from front to back the fuses are for (1
–15A) front panel PCM DC accessories and voltmeter, (2 –5A) interior LED lighting, (3 –15A) air conditioning unit,
(4 –15A) available open port. Replace fuses with an ATC/ATOF fuse of the same rating.
Outdoor WiFi Access Point
The included outdoor wireless access point is powered over its ethernet cable (PoE). For it to function
properly you must ensure you have it connected to the correct ethernet bulkhead port.
To connect and power on the device, use the included cable with weather proof housing and insert into
ethernet bulkhead on outside of enclosure. (Note: To release push the black raised portion on the
bulkhead connector and pull the connector free.) Connect opposing end into access point and ensure via
the indicator light that the device is powered. Connect to mast if desired using included clamp or cable
ties.
A first-time setup is required to operate the unit and set default parameters such as the wireless network
SSID. For the access point software please visit www.ubnt.com/download/unifi/unifi-ap-outdoor.
Air-Conditioning Unit
The on-board air conditioning unit is a 200BTU thermoelectric cooler, capable of keeping all electronic
devices cool while the enclosure is completely closed. An adjustable thermostat is located on the inside
face from 0-100ºF. A condensate drip line is fed through the bottom of the enclosure. Ensure this line
does not get clogged or water build-up will occur inside the unit possibly splashing sensitive electronic
equipment.
When the unit is powered, the inside fan will always be on circulating air. The outside fan will only spin
while the unit is actively cooling.
Stabilization Outriggers
Runner Stabilizing:
Before deploying the satellite antenna aboard your PodRunner it is best to stabilize the chassis with the included
stabilization outriggers located in between the stantions underneath the flyaway board. First remove the four
threaded knobs securing the legs in place and set aside. Open the folding legs and using the four knobs, located
inside in the storage drawer, lock them into place snugly. Elevate the runner chassis to provide enough clearance to
fit deployed stabilizer leg underneath the upper frame. Align the through-holes in the stabilizer legs to the matching
threaded holes in the upper frame and using the remaining four knobs and secure them tightly. Lower the chassis

Star-Runner™ Owner’s Manual
5
PodRunner® by Rescue 42, Inc.
PO Box 1242 Chico, CA 95927
Toll Free: [phone] / Business: [phone]
www.ThePodRunner.com
onto the stabilizers just to the point where the majority of the weight is on the outriggers. Lock the disc brakes and
use the Runner wheel chocks as needed. For a more stable setup on level ground, rotate legs into their upright
position and lower the bottom of the lower frame to the ground.
If leveling of the stabilizers is needed, elevate the chassis and using the threaded feet of the stabilizers adjust as
necessary.
To remove the stabilizer legs first ensure the satellite is in its stowed position. Then simply reverse the process of
above. Storing four of the knobs inside in the storage drawer, and using four of the knobs to secure the stabilizer
legs to the stantions.
Flyaway Board Stabilizing:
Please use caution removing the satellite from atop the Star-Runner™. Team lift is recommended!
Remove the four knobs securing the stabilizers to the stantions. Slide the stabilizers out, fold the legs open and use
the four knobs from the storage drawer to secure the legs open. Unscrew the eight knobs that secure the satellite
flyaway board to the Star-Runner. Team lift the board above the mounting studs and set where you would like the
satellite deployed. While one person carefully tilts the flyaway board up, attach one stabilizer leg using four knobs to
the reinforcement bars on the bottom of the flyaway board. Repeat with the opposite side. Start with the heavy side
next to the antenna base. Level using threaded feet as needed.
To remove the stabilizer legs, reverse the process above ensure the satellite in fully stowed. Only remove one
stabilizer at a time! Two people will be needed to lift the flyaway board back onto the Star-Runner!
Winegard Satellite System
Please consult the Winegard WV750 Owner’s Manual for any questions regarding operation of the antenna
system and controller.
ViaSat Nomadic Modem
Your modem is powered from the power strip and will turn on automatically when your PCM is powered
on. For operating instructions and service setup of the modem consult the owner’s manual and/or service
provider.

Star-Runner™ Owner’s Manual
6
PodRunner® by Rescue 42, Inc.
PO Box 1242 Chico, CA 95927
Toll Free: [phone] / Business: [phone]
www.ThePodRunner.com
Troubleshooting
When a component is not functioning correctly follow these steps for common problems:
No power at all with the master power switch on
1. Check battery disconnect on rear of PCM and verify it is “ON”.
2. Charge via shore inlet and test functionality. If working this indicates dead batteries. Verify dead
battery and replace.
3. Open PCM lid and check for loose connections on batteries, switches, and relays.
No AC Power from inverter
1. Check reset button on power strip.
2. Check the inverter power switch is in the on position.
3. Check DC terminals on inverter and ensure they are tight and providing power.
No DC power
1. Check battery disconnect on rear of PCM and verify it is “ON”.
2. Charge via shore inlet and test functionality. If working this indicates dead batteries. Verify dead
battery and replace.
3. Check fuses located inside the PCM. If blown, find and fix the cause, then replace the fuse.
LED Lighting is not turning on
1. Check wiring for loose connection.
2. Check fuse located inside the PCM. If blown, find and fix the cause, then replace the fuse.
Vehicle charging is constantly blowing fuses
1. Check voltage on voltmeter when powered on, if voltage reads below 25% charge via shore
inlet until at least 50%. The batteries are too depleted and drawing to much current.
2. The wiring on the enclosure for vehicle charging is rated at 30 Amps and can use a 30A fuse.
Prior to increasing fuse size, verify vehicle external 12V circuit and that it is rated at 30A or
above.
Shore charging not working
1. Verify shore/vehicle switch is in shore position.
2. Ensure shore inlet power cable is fully seated and supplying AC
3. Check circuit breaker on right side of PCM in front of inverter. If tripped, reset it.

Star-Runner™ Owner’s Manual
7
PodRunner® by Rescue 42, Inc.
PO Box 1242 Chico, CA 95927
Toll Free: [phone] / Business: [phone]
www.ThePodRunner.com
Warranty
We warranty this product to the original purchaser to be free from defect in materials and workmanship for one year
from the date of purchase. Please note that all warranty claims must be accompanied by an original proof of
purchase in the form of a purchase receipt or invoice and a written detailed description of the defect. Any product
or part found to be defective within that period will be replaced without charge provided that: (1) the product was
not misused or overloaded; (2) no alterations or modifications were made; (3) its failure resulted from a defect in
material or workmanship and not from normal wear expected in the use of this product; (4) the product or part is
delivered, freight prepaid to Rescue 42, Inc. Please contact Rescue 42, Inc. at [phone] / [phone] to
get a return authorization number prior to return. Manufacturers only obligation shall be to replace such products or
parts proved to be defective.
Rescue 42, Inc.
P.O. Box 1242
Chico, CA 95927-1242
Toll Free: [phone]
Business: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
E-Mail: [e-mail]
www.ThePodRunner.com
(Contact Rescue 42, Inc. for a Physical/Shipping Address)
No warranty is given for PodRunner®products outside of the United States and Canada.
This warranty is expressly made in lieu of any and all other warranties, express or implied, including the warranties
of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. Rescue 42’s sole liability to any purchaser is limited to the
remedy set forth above. In no event will Rescue 42 be liable for any lost profits, lost sales or for any consequential,
direct, indirect, incidental, special or exemplary or punitive damages or for any other damages of any kind or nature.
Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitations
may not be applicable. This warranty gives you specific legal rights and you may also have other rights which vary
from state to state.