charger lm317
Hello,
regarding protection measures, I think that the 1N4001 could be used alternatively to output series 5A diode. When the output series diode is present, no current can't flow back to input, thus 1N4001 is superfluous, if the later is present, reverse current flow from battery won't damage the regulator and 5 A diode isn't necessary. The more serious issue is with protection against reversed battery, which blows the fuse at any case, cause battery current must be regarded as effectively unlimited. This results in a single design rule: The fuses melting integral should not damage the diode.
Alternatively, an invers operated MOSFET switch could be used as "non-selfdestructing" protection device.
Regarding bypass capacitors, National has a similar battery charger application without output capacitors. Don't know if it could show parasitic oscillations, but they wouldn't be an issue for a battery charger, I think.
Regards,
Frank