Ensuring our horn kits and onboard air systems are built with the highest-quality components is a top priority at HornBlasters. However, over time, even the best products experience wear and tear. While we strive to provide the best parts on the market, the care and maintenance performed after the kits leave our warehouse play a significant role in their longevity. Despite using top-notch components and practicing excellent maintenance, some minor arts may eventually need replacement.

As of now, we have been manufacturing and selling horn kits and onboard air systems for 22 years. Many of our early customers still use the original kits they purchased over a decade ago, utilizing them daily. This troubleshooting guide is designed to help you address minor issues that may arise, ensuring your kit continues to blast loud and proud for years to come.

So, you have your kit all set up and ready to go! If you haven’t already, we highly recommend checking out our blog on proper installation and maintenance. Ensuring your kit is installed correctly and maintained as prescribed is the best way to make it last as long as, or even longer than, the vehicle it’s installed on.

We can’t emphasize this enough: water and rust are the primary enemies of any components installed underneath a vehicle. Most common issues we cover in this blog can be easily avoided by keeping your electrical components as dry as possible and regularly draining moisture from your air tank.

All of our components are designed for maximum durability, but some parts may wear out before others over time. We've compiled a list of potential issues that may arise after years of normal use, along with troubleshooting tips to help you keep your kit running like new.

If your compressor won't turn on, the first thing to check is your wiring. A blown fuse or a weak ground could be the culprit. If you've recently installed your kit, it's more likely that something isn't connected properly. Double-check the wiring using our instructions and wiring diagram to ensure all connections are secure. This includes inspecting the in-line fuse to see if it has blown. If all your wiring is correct, the next step is to determine whether the issue lies with your pressure switch or the compressor itself.

Your pressure switch controls your air compressor, activating it when air pressure is too low and shutting it off when the air tank reaches the designated pressure. If the pressure switch fails, it may either prevent the compressor from turning on or off.

While pressure switch failure is more likely than air compressor issues, it’s important to rule out the compressor itself before replacing the switch. To do this, bypass the pressure switch and connect power and ground directly to the compressor. If the compressor turns on, the pressure switch is the problem. If it doesn’t, the issue may lie within the compressor.

If your air compressor won’t shut off and the air tank pressure activates the safety blow-off, immediately disconnect the compressor from power by removing the fuse. A compressor that won’t turn off is more problematic than one that won’t turn on, as it can blow a fuse or even cause permanent damage due to overworking and excessive power draw from the battery. After disconnecting the power, replace the pressure switch. Fortunately, replacing the pressure switch is straightforward and inexpensive. Above are some common pressure switches that are direct replacements for those used in our horn kits and onboard air systems.

If you notice that your air tank is losing pressure, the most common cause is a leak. The first step is to perform a soapy water test. This test helps locate small leaks that may not be visible or audible. Fill a spray bottle with water and a little soap, then spray your system.

Look for bubbles, as they indicate the location of the leak. Be sure to spray around all connections, including the ports on your tank and where your air line connects. Also, ensure your drain cock is closed, as it may simply be loose after the last time you drained the tank.

If you don’t find any leaks, the issue may be with your compressor, which can’t be detected with a soapy water test. Check near the compressor filter to see if you can feel any air coming out. Air should be sucked in, not blown out, so any blowback indicates a check valve issue.

The check valve, located on the end of the stainless steel braided leader hose attached to your compressor, prevents air from leaking back out of the tank. Over-torquing the check valve during installation is a common cause of failure, but they can also wear out over time. To test the check valve, try blowing into it. If air passes through towards the compressor, it needs to be replaced. If it works properly, no air will pass through in that direction. If your check valve is fine and you still experience blowback, it may be time to replace the compressor.

Every air horn and train horn we sell is unique, but there are some general troubleshooting steps you can take if your horns don’t sound quite right. The most common cause of odd horn sounds is moisture. If you hear a higher pitch or squeaking, it’s likely moisture in the diaphragm. This can be easily fixed by blasting your horn! It may take a few extra blasts, but the best way to remove water is to blow it out. Additionally, ensure your tank is drained regularly, as moisture from the air tank can reach the horns. If your horns still don't sound right, there might be a restriction in your airflow. Check your air lines for kinks or leaks, and ensure the valve for your horn is free of debris.

Some horns, like the Nathan AirChime Train Horns, have parts designed to be replaced over time. While they are built to withstand harsh weather for decades, real train horns may need new diaphragms and cushions after years of use to keep them sounding brand new. We carry replacements for these parts, so don't worry if you need them!

Remember, these tips are for addressing potential issues that might arise. You may never encounter any of the problems we’ve covered here, but if you do, know that most fixes are quick and easy—nothing to stress about. Your kit is built to last, and like any automotive system, it may require occasional maintenance, such as replacing a pressure switch, similar to changing a fuel filter in your truck. This is all part of long-term maintenance.

If you come across any issues not covered in this blog, we're always here to help! You can reach us by phone, email, or through our online chat. We’re ready to answer any questions you have and assist you in troubleshooting and resolving any issues you may encounter.