Replacement horn

JoeStang

My horn took a dive (again), and I'd like to upgrade the sound this time, if possible. I have this style currently, behind a trim piece in the anchor locker:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000FKKOK6/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

As far as I can tell its just 2 wires that go to the horn, and the switch at the dash activates it.

I want to replace it with this:

Will I need to use the relay they include for the new horn, or can I just use the existing two wires and get it mounted up somehow?

Grahamu

What is the current draw? Are the existing wire's gauge large enough for it? A relay usually means it has a higher amperage.

davidbrooks

I put in an air horn. Dual trumpet. And I absolutely love it talk about getting people's attention when you want to

JoeStang

Grahamu said:

What is the current draw? Are the existing wire's gauge large enough for it? A relay usually means it has a higher amperage.

It supposedly comes with a 30A relay and draws 16A, which seems like a ton, right?

Here's the install instructions. It says to just install with factory wiring for a car, but for a motorcycle to wire in the relay to protect the horn button and wiring.

davidbrooks said:

I put in an air horn. Dual trumpet. And I absolutely love it talk about getting people's attention when you want to

This is kind of a hybrid, its a mini compressor and horn so I can install in the factory location. I have to access the area via a small access plate to the anchor locker, so big air horns are not really on the menu.

YYZRC

Reviews aren't exactly stellar.

JoeStang

None of them really have stellar reviews that I've found, maybe you see something different? I really wanted to avoid having to wire to the battery or helm, because thats a PITA and I dont have a ton of extra time nowadays for projects like that. I dont want to install anything that causes damage or doesnt work right though, I'll just get the same thing I had for now and make it a fall project to upgrade.

YYZRC

I used to carry one of those mini spray can air horns, knowing that the one time I actually need my boat horn it either wouldn't work or wouldn't be loud enough.

JoeStang

I thought about that, and I might keep that as a backup, but I still want a working horn that isnt a wimpy sound.

What do you think the factory switch / fuse / wiring is good to? 5A, 10A? Maybe I just get the loudest horn I can find that doesnt require adding a relay.

YYZRC

I believe the wiring in my boat is 14 gauge which would be good for 15 amps.  The Carling switches are rated at 20 amps I believe.  Not sure what the horn breaker is but I would guess not higher than 15 amps.

YYZRC

Pulled out my old dash panels and the horn breaker is 5 amps. 

davidbrooks

Don't forget the amps have to also go through the horn switch. They aren't always wired for that.