There’s a universal sound that strikes dread into the heart of any driver: the weak, defeated click-click-click of a dead battery. I remember it vividly. It was a frigid Tuesday morning, the kind where the air bites at your skin, and I was already running late for a critical meeting. I turned the key in my trusty old pickup, and instead of the familiar roar, I got nothing but that pathetic clicking. Jumper cables were in the garage, but my other car was blocked in. Calling for roadside assistance meant an hour’s wait, at best. It’s a moment of pure helplessness, a complete disruption to your day caused by a simple lack of electrical charge. In that moment, you realize that reliable power isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity for modern life. This is precisely the problem that a heavy-duty jump starter is designed to solve, and why we take finding the right one so seriously.
- 1,700 Peak Amps; 425 Cranking Amps
- 22Ah Clore PROFORMER Battery
What to Consider Before Buying a Jump Starter
A jump starter is more than just an item you store in your trunk; it’s a key solution for independence and peace of mind. It’s the difference between being stranded on the side of the road and getting back on your way in minutes. It empowers you to solve a common and frustrating problem without relying on the kindness of strangers or expensive service calls. The main benefit is immediate, on-demand power capable of cranking over a dead engine, whether it’s a small sedan, a work truck, or even a boat. It’s an essential piece of emergency equipment for anyone who drives, especially those with older vehicles, in colder climates, or who work in professional automotive settings.
The ideal customer for a robust, professional-grade jump starter like the Clore Automotive JNC660 1700 Amp Jump Starter is someone who values reliability and raw power over compact size and extra frills. This includes auto mechanics, tow truck operators, farmers, and anyone with a fleet of vehicles or heavy machinery. It’s also perfect for the serious vehicle owner who wants a “buy it for life” tool that won’t fail when needed most. On the other hand, it might not be the best fit for someone who only drives a small compact car in a warm climate and prioritizes having a tiny device that can also charge their phone. For them, a smaller lithium-ion power bank might suffice, but they’d be sacrificing the sheer cranking force and durability the JNC660 offers.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: This is not a pocket-sized device. At 18 pounds and with significant dimensions, the JNC660 is a substantial piece of equipment. You need to consider if you have dedicated space in your trunk, truck bed, or workshop. Its size is a direct result of its powerful lead-acid battery, a trade-off for its immense starting capability.
- Capacity/Performance: Look beyond just “peak amps,” which can be a misleading marketing number. The more important figure is Cranking Amps (CA) or Cold Cranking Amps (CCA). The JNC660 offers 425 Cranking Amps, a formidable number that indicates its ability to turn over large, stubborn engines, even in cold weather. The 22Ah battery capacity also ensures it can deliver multiple jump starts before needing a recharge.
- Materials & Durability: A jump starter lives a hard life. The JNC660 features a tough, impact-resistant case designed to withstand drops and abuse in a workshop environment. Crucially, it uses heavy-duty #2 AWG cables and industrial-grade clamps. Thicker cables transfer power more efficiently and with less heat buildup, ensuring maximum energy reaches your battery.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: This unit is refreshingly straightforward. There are no complex digital menus—just clamps, a power switch, and a voltmeter. Maintenance involves keeping the internal battery charged. The JNC660 has a built-in automatic charger; you simply plug in a standard extension cord. Regular charging (after each use and at least every 30-60 days) is vital for the longevity of the internal lead-acid battery.
Keeping these factors in mind, the Clore Automotive JNC660 1700 Amp Jump Starter stands out in several areas, particularly performance and durability. You can explore its detailed specifications here.
While the Clore Automotive JNC660 1700 Amp Jump Starter is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- START DEAD BATTERIES — Instantly start dead batteries with 1000 amps of peak lithium power. Up to 20 starts per charge on engines up to 6.0L gas and 3.0L diesel.
- POWERFUL CAR BATTERY JUMP STARTER: The ET03 car battery jump starter can easily jump-start all 12V common vehicles with up to 8.0L gas and 7.0L diesel engines in seconds with its peak current reaching...
- 🔋 POWERFUL & VERSATILE EMERGENCY DEVICE: Never be stranded again! The NAISIANG car jump starter combines a 2800A peak current jump starter, a high-pressure portable air compressor, a 10000mAh power...
First Impressions: A Purpose-Built Powerhouse
Unboxing the Clore Automotive JNC660 1700 Amp Jump Starter feels less like opening a consumer gadget and more like equipping a professional tool. There’s no fancy packaging, just a sturdy cardboard box containing the unit itself. The first thing that struck us was its heft and solid construction. At 18 pounds, it has a reassuring density that immediately communicates its power. The blue casing is made of a tough, durable plastic that feels like it could handle being tossed in the back of a work truck without a second thought. The integrated handle is robust and makes carrying it manageable.
The 46-inch #2 AWG cables are impressively thick, far more substantial than what you’d find on consumer-grade jumper cables or smaller lithium packs. They feel professional and capable of handling high current without issue. The industrial-grade clamps are equally impressive, with a strong spring and solid copper jaws that promise a secure, high-conductivity connection. Compared to the sleek, compact lithium-ion starters that dominate the market today, the JNC660 looks decidedly old-school, but in the best way possible. It’s a purpose-built machine, prioritizing raw function over form, which is exactly what we want in a tool designed for critical situations.
What We Like
- Incredible starting power capable of handling large engines, diesels, and completely dead batteries.
- Proven longevity, with many users reporting over a decade of reliable service.
- Heavy-duty #2 AWG cables and industrial clamps ensure maximum power transfer and durability.
- Simple, no-frills operation with an easy-to-read analog voltmeter.
- Built-in automatic charger for easy and safe maintenance of the internal battery.
Limitations
- Does not include a standard AC extension cord for charging, which must be supplied by the user.
- Heavy and bulky (18 lbs) compared to modern lithium-ion alternatives.
Deep Dive: Performance Under Pressure
A jump starter’s true worth is only revealed under load, when it’s the only thing standing between you and being stranded. We put the Clore Automotive JNC660 1700 Amp Jump Starter through its paces in scenarios designed to test its limits, from daily use in a busy shop environment to reviving long-dead project cars. Its performance was not just impressive; it was definitive. This is a tool that delivers on its promises with brute, unwavering force.
Raw Cranking Power in Action
The headline figures are 1700 Peak Amps and 425 Cranking Amps, but numbers on a box don’t tell the whole story. The real test is a stone-cold engine with a battery drained to zero volts. We hooked the JNC660 up to an old V8 project truck that hadn’t been started in over a year. The battery was not just dead; it was a paperweight. Lesser jump starters would have struggled, delivering a weak crank before giving up. With the JNC660, the experience was different. After connecting the solid clamps, we hit the key, and the engine turned over with an authority that defied the truck’s dead battery. It was as if a brand new, fully charged battery had been installed. This real-world power is what sets it apart.
Our findings are echoed by countless users. One professional who works in an automotive shop reported that it starts 98% of all cars and trucks they encounter, and when it fails, it’s because the vehicle’s battery has an internal short that no jump box could overcome. Another user shared a story of starting an older tractor after its lights were left on, a task that would overwhelm smaller units. This isn’t just for passenger cars; we confirmed reports of it successfully starting diesel engines, which require significantly more cranking power. It’s this consistent, overwhelming power that makes the Clore Automotive JNC660 1700 Amp Jump Starter a tool you can truly depend on.
Built to Last: Professional-Grade Durability and Design
In a world of disposable electronics, the JNC660 is an outlier. Its design philosophy is rooted in longevity and serviceability. The heart of this durability lies in its components. The 46-inch #2 AWG welding-style cables are the real deal. This thickness minimizes voltage drop, ensuring that the power from the internal battery gets to your vehicle’s starter with maximum efficiency. The industrial-grade “Hot Jaw” clamps are designed for repeated, heavy use, providing a tenacious grip on battery terminals. This build quality is why we see so many testimonials from users who have owned the exact same model for over a decade. One user mentioned replacing their 15-year-old JNC660 with a new one, not because it failed entirely, but simply because the battery was finally losing its ability to hold a charge after a decade and a half of service.
However, no product is perfect. We did find isolated reports of the plastic pivot point on the clamps breaking under pressure. One user detailed how theirs failed on the second use, a clear quality control issue. While this seems to be a rare occurrence given the unit’s overall reputation, it’s a point to be mindful of. Treat the clamps with respect, and they should last. The fact that another user mentioned saving the high-quality cables from their old unit to potentially use on the new one speaks volumes about the quality of the core components. This is a tool designed to endure the harsh realities of a garage or roadside assistance call.
The User Experience: Straightforward and Uncomplicated
Using the Clore Automotive JNC660 1700 Amp Jump Starter is refreshingly simple. There are no confusing settings or digital screens to navigate in a stressful situation. You press the red button to check the internal battery’s status on the analog voltmeter, connect the clamps correctly (red to positive, black to a ground), and start your vehicle. That’s it. This simplicity is a significant advantage when you’re in a hurry, in the dark, or in bad weather.
One common point of confusion we saw in user feedback, which we can clarify from our testing, concerns the charging gauge. When plugged in, the needle on the voltmeter doesn’t go all the way to the “full” mark on the right. As one astute user correctly pointed out after reading the manual carefully, the gauge is a power meter, not a fuel gauge. When the green “CHARGED” light illuminates, the unit is fully charged, even if the needle sits around the 3/4 mark. This is normal operation. The unit features an automatic charger, meaning you can leave it plugged in without fear of overcharging, ensuring it’s always ready to go. The most significant gripe, and one we share, is the lack of an included AC charging cord. The unit charges via a male plug receptacle on the front, designed for any standard household or workshop extension cord. While this is practical, the omission feels like a cost-cutting measure that detracts from the out-of-the-box experience.
What Other Users Are Saying
Sifting through a mountain of feedback, a clear picture of the Clore Automotive JNC660 1700 Amp Jump Starter emerges. The overwhelming sentiment is positive, particularly from users who rely on it professionally or for demanding tasks. One user, a car salesman, calls it indispensable for daily use on the lot, noting this is his second one only because the first was stolen. Another was “in awe” when it started their truck instantly in a tight garage where a traditional jump from another vehicle was impossible. The theme of longevity is constant, with one person stating, “I just bought this replacement of the exact same one from almost 15 years ago.”
However, the feedback isn’t universally perfect, and it’s important to highlight the negatives. The most common complaint by far is the missing charging cord. Several users removed a star from their rating for this, feeling that for the price, a simple extension cord should be included. We also saw a few reports of units arriving defective or failing prematurely. One user’s unit wouldn’t take a charge right out of the box, while another’s failed after only a couple of uses due to a disconnected internal battery post. While these appear to be outliers in a product with a long history of reliability, they underscore the importance of testing your unit upon arrival to ensure it’s functioning correctly.
How Does the Clore Automotive JNC660 Compare to Alternatives?
The JNC660 is a classic for a reason, but the market is now filled with modern, compact alternatives. Here’s how it stacks up against some popular competitors.
1. TREKURE 3500A Portable Car Jump Starter
- 【High-Performance Car Jump Starter】Driven by stable 3500A, the jump box for car battery portable can easily restart 12V dead vehicles up to 8.0L gas & 6.5L diesel engines in seconds even at...
- 【16800mAh Power Bank】Integrated 4 thinner, high-capacity battery packs, the battery jumper starter portable also works as a long-lasting power bank recharging any personal mobile device, like...
The TREKURE represents the new wave of lithium-ion jump starters. Its main advantages are its incredibly compact size and versatility. It’s small enough to fit in a glove box and doubles as a power bank with fast-charging USB ports for your phone and other devices. With a claimed 3500A peak current, it’s rated for large gas and diesel engines. Someone who prioritizes portability, multifunctionality, and doesn’t need the extreme, repeated-use durability of a professional unit might prefer the TREKURE. However, the JNC660’s lead-acid technology is often considered more robust and reliable for heavy, continuous use in a professional shop setting and may have a longer overall service life if properly maintained.
2. STANLEY J5C09D 1200 Peak Amp Jump Starter
- Delivers serious jump-starting power with 1200 peak amps and 600 instant starting amps
- Reverse polarity alarm alerts when there is an improper connection; Connect the clamps to the battery, turn on the switch and start your vehicle
The STANLEY J5C09D is an all-in-one roadside emergency tool. Its key feature, beyond the 1200 peak amp jump starter, is the built-in 120 PSI air compressor for inflating tires. It also includes a USB port and a pivoting LED work light. This product is ideal for the average family or commuter who wants a single device to handle multiple common roadside issues. While its jump-starting power is less than the JNC660’s, it’s sufficient for most passenger cars and light trucks. The trade-off is specialization. The Clore Automotive JNC660 1700 Amp Jump Starter is singularly focused on one task—starting vehicles—and it does that one task with more power and professional-grade construction than the multi-function STANLEY.
3. Powrun P-ONE Jump Starter 2000A
- POWERFUL BOOST FUNCTION - With 2000Amp peak current this jump starter can start the car with a dead battery in seconds, up to 25 times with a single charge. Even if the battery voltage is too low...
- INTELLIGENT SAFETY SYSTEM - The Powrun battery jump starter has 8 types of protection systems, it comes with excellent conductivity and heavy-duty jump cables. It will work even in extreme...
Similar to the TREKURE, the Powrun P-ONE is another compact and powerful lithium-ion option. It boasts a 2000A peak rating and is designed to be lightweight and easy to store. It comes with a carrying case and smart jumper cables that offer reverse polarity and short-circuit protection, features the more basic JNC660 lacks. This is a great choice for a user who wants modern safety features and a small form factor for their personal vehicle. The decision between the Powrun and the JNC660 comes down to technology and intended use. The Powrun offers modern convenience and safety in a small package, while the JNC660 offers old-school, brute-force power and proven durability for more demanding applications.
Our Final Verdict: A Timeless Tool for Serious Work
After extensive testing and analysis, our conclusion is clear: the Clore Automotive JNC660 1700 Amp Jump Starter remains a top-tier choice for anyone who values raw power and uncompromising reliability. This is not the lightest, smallest, or most feature-packed jump starter on the market. It won’t charge your laptop, and it doesn’t have a fancy LCD screen. What it does have is the sheer electrical muscle to crank over stubborn engines in the worst conditions, time and time again. Its heavy-duty construction, from the case to the cables and clamps, is built for a life of hard work.
We recommend this jump starter without hesitation to mechanics, farmers, tow operators, and serious vehicle enthusiasts who need a tool that simply works. It’s for the person who sees a dead battery not as an inconvenience, but as a problem to be solved immediately and definitively. While the lack of an included charging cord is a minor annoyance, it’s a small price to pay for the peace of mind this powerhouse provides. It’s a testament to a classic, purpose-built design that continues to outperform its more modern counterparts where it matters most: under the hood.
If you’ve decided the Clore Automotive JNC660 1700 Amp Jump Starter is the right fit for your needs, you can check its current price and availability here.
Last update on 2025-10-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API