The HornBlasters Outlaw 2MC Train Horn Kit is a comprehensive air horn system designed to provide a loud and distinctive horn sound for vehicles. It includes an air source kit, a train horn assembly, and all necessary components for installation and operation.
Function Description:
The primary function of the HornBlasters Outlaw 2MC Train Horn Kit is to produce a powerful train horn sound. This is achieved through an air compressor that fills an air tank, which then supplies pressurized air to the train horn's solenoid valve. When activated, the valve releases air into the horn bells, generating the characteristic loud sound. The system is designed for use with 12-volt DC systems and can be activated via the vehicle's steering wheel horn button or an optional push-button switch.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Air Source Kit: The kit includes a 2MC/228H Air Source, which comprises an air compressor and an air tank. The compressor is equipped with an automatic reset thermal protector to prevent overheating.
- Air Tank Pressure: The air tank should not be filled above 150 PSI to prevent serious injury or death.
- Air Line: The kit comes with 20 feet of 1/2" air line for connecting the air source to the train horn.
- Wiring: The system utilizes a relay for compressor control. Pin 87 connects to the battery positive terminal via a supplied 10-gauge RED wire and fuse holder. Pin 86 connects to a key-power source (only on when the vehicle is on) to prevent the compressor from running when the vehicle is off. Pin 85 connects to a ground point (frame of the vehicle or battery negative terminal). Pin 30 connects to the red lead from the compressor/tank combo.
- Horn Activation Wiring: For steering wheel activation, an 18-gauge wire connects the solenoid valve to the factory horn wire (positive) via a T-Tap/Scotchlok Connector (B) and to a ground point (vehicle frame) via a butt connector (A). For push-button activation, an 18-gauge Grey/Blue wire connects the solenoid valve to a +12v power source (e.g., battery) via a 10A fuse and a push-button, and to a ground point (vehicle frame).
- Fittings: The manual provides a guide for identifying NPT (National Pipe Taper) thread sizes: 1/2" NPT (0.84" diameter), 3/8" NPT (0.675" diameter), 1/4" NPT (0.54" diameter), and 1/8" NPT (0.405" diameter). Brass fittings are used for connections to the tank.
- Air Filter: The compressor's air inlet includes an air filter housing with a replaceable element.
Usage Features:
- Installation Flexibility: The manual provides recommended installation locations for the compressor and horns in trucks, including the toolbox, truck bed (if covered), and engine bay (away from heat sources). The compressor must be mounted upright or sideways, never upside down. The air filter can be relocated to protected areas like behind the rear bumper, between the truck body and bed, or above the spare tire crank mechanism.
- Horn Mounting: Horns can be mounted underneath the bed or in the bed itself. Facing them forward when mounted underneath may lead to dirt/dust pickup, but this is normal and will not damage the horn. Regular honking helps clear buildup.
- Activation Options: The system can be integrated with the vehicle's existing horn button on the steering wheel or activated via a separate push-button switch.
- Key-Power Source: The compressor is designed to run only when the vehicle's key is on, preventing battery drain. An optional toggle switch can be used for manual control if a suitable key-power source is unavailable, but requires manual deactivation to prevent battery drain.
- Air Line Connection: Emphasizes ensuring air lines are fully seated over compression fittings before tightening to prevent leaks and ensure proper horn sound. Heating stiff lines can make them more malleable.
- Safety Precautions: The manual stresses important safety instructions, including not disassembling electrical components, avoiding repairs or modifications, not operating in water or liquid, using only with 12-volt DC systems, and not leaving the air system unattended. It also warns against touching hot compressor parts, using near open flames or explosive materials, administering oxygen, pumping anything other than atmospheric air, operating while drowsy, pointing air nozzles at people, and filling the tank above 150 PSI. Eye protection is recommended during installation, and the parking brake should be engaged. The battery negative cable should be disconnected before wiring.
Maintenance Features:
- Regular Moisture Drainage (Every 2 Weeks): The air tank must be drained of moisture every two weeks to prevent water from entering the horns (causing squeaking or malfunction) or the pressure switch (causing failure). The drain cock has a closed and open position for this purpose.
- Air Filter Inspection (Monthly): The compressor's air filter element should be checked monthly for dust/dirt buildup and replaced if necessary.
- Air Filter Replacement (Every 2-3 Months): The compressor filter must be changed every 2-3 months to prevent dirt/dust from entering the compressor and causing premature wear. The filter housing can be pried apart with a flathead screwdriver to access and replace the element.
- Air Line Inspection (Every 2 Months): Air lines should be inspected every two months to ensure they are not rubbing against anything and to check the horns for damage.
- Wiring Inspection (Every 2 Months): Wiring should be checked for corrosion, especially in winter, as oxidized or corroded terminal connectors can cause intermittent system failure.
- Tank Leak Check (Every 3 Months): After some time, vehicle vibration can cause small leaks at fittings or air line connections. The tank should be checked for leaks every three months using soapy water or Windex®; bubbles indicate a leak. Fittings may need tightening, Teflon tape reapplication, or air lines may need to be re-cut and re-seated into PTC fittings.
- Ground Connection Check (Yearly): Ground connections for the compressor and solenoid valve should be checked yearly to ensure they are secure and clean (using a wire brush if needed) for proper operation.
- Mounting Hardware Inspection (Yearly): All mounting hardware for the compressor, tank, and horns should be inspected yearly to ensure components remain secured.
- Troubleshooting Guide: The manual includes sections for troubleshooting common issues such as the compressor not turning on (checking 12v connection, relay wiring, fuse), the compressor not filling the tank (checking drain cock, valve position, air inlet plug), the tank losing pressure (checking for leaks with soapy water), horns not honking (checking air pressure, solenoid valve wiring, power source), horns sounding incorrect (draining moisture, checking for obstructions, cleaning horns), and horns honking on their own (addressing constant power feed to the valve, especially with OEM horn wiring).
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