Minor Components: Pressure Switch, Solenoid Valve, Safety Blow-Off, & Air Gauge

Possibly the most important minor component of your entire kit — without a properly working pressure switch, your kit will not work. While there isn’t really any maintenance that needs to be done (other than draining the tank on a regular basis), wiring your pressure switch is vital to getting your system to work.

The most important thing to note is that some pressure switches are sealed and some are not. While all pressure switches can be used on systems installed outside the vehicle, some are more weather-resistant than others. If you plan on getting your ride wet or dirty on a regular basis, you want a sealed pressure switch, such as one that comes with leads.

Your Solenoid Valve, also commonly known as the Air Valve, is the component that controls the airflow to your horns. If installed improperly, your horn will not sound off. Knowing how your solenoid valve works will ensure that your horns will sound off at your command.

The Solenoid Valve works by using a magnet and a plunger. When the valve receives power, it activates the magnet that pulls the plunger up, allowing air to pass through. The plunger is spring-loaded, so as soon as the valve stops receiving power, the magnet disengages and the plunger closes immediately. These valves are directional — confirm the arrow on the brass body points toward the horns. Most valves are dual-polarity, so either wire can be power or ground: ground one wire near the valve, and run the other to your toggle switch or push button.

Your safety blow-off is used to relieve pressure in cases of emergency. Using a loaded spring, once the pressure reaches a certain point, it releases and vents pressure from the tank. This fitting serves as a safety mechanism to prevent the tank from over-pressurizing.

When a pressure switch fails and keeps the compressor on, over-pressurizing the tank could cause it to rupture. The Safety Blow-Off is rated a little higher than your Pressure Switch — for example, most kits run at 150 PSI and use a 175 PSI Safety Blow-Off. A properly installed blow-off on the tank is a must for any air system.

Your Air Gauge is used to monitor the air pressure in the tank. Being able to monitor the tank’s pressure allows for easier troubleshooting when diagnosing problems.

We have two types of gauges: Digital Air Gauges and Analog Air Gauges. Most kits include an Analog Air Gauge, but many customers substitute a Digital Air Gauge so they can monitor it from the cab. Even though systems are automatic, having a gauge installed can save time and money by showing exactly what is going on with your onboard air system.