| Jonnyfilmboy | 11-20-2004 06:36 PM |
Super-Loud Italian Air Horn installed
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I just installed this horn today into my 2004 WRX:
[img]http://www.griotsgarage.com/images/products/lg/77839_LG.jpg[/img]
I purchased it online from [url=http://www.griotsgarage.com/search.jsp?searchtext=77839]GriotsGarage.com[/url].
The package came with a nice letter thanking me for my purchase, thanking me for trusting them to provide a quality product, and basically saying some nice things to give the purchaser a "nice doing business with you" feeling. It also came with a new catalog, p/o, a pretty postcard of one of their catalog covers (usually featuring some awesome Ferrari or Lotus), lots of packing material, and that's it. They could have just sent the horn, but they really packed it well inside another box. Nice.
[b]CONTENTS OF PACKAGE:[/b]
The horn comes with instructions, the compressor/trumpet, a relay, bolt, nut, and a plastic fitting with teeth used for mounting with the bolt and nut.
[b]INITIAL IMPRESSIONS:[/b]
The horn is a LOT smaller than the picture. I was worried that I wouldn't be able to install this mother anywhere when I first saw the pic. But I decided to just take the plunge and cross that bridge later (not to mix metaphors). The terminals on the compressor are clearly labeled with + and _. Nice. The trumpet is plastic and thick, though you can see a smear from the mold process on the front. Something to keep in mind if you are going to prominantly display this thing. The bolt that came with the kit fits securely onto the compressor mount preventing it from spinning. That way, you can just tighten the nut and not have to hold the bolt at the same time. Not all compressors have this. This is a great feature. The compressor itself is about 20-30% smaller than a normal compressor you would get from Fiamm or Hella. I suppose this is because the compressor doesn't need to compensate for expansion of the tubing since it is connected directly to the trumpets. Cool. Whatever. As long as it works.
[b]INSTALLATION:[/b]
Install was as simple as falling off a curb. According to the directions, you don't need to wire up a relay unless the car is older than 1975 (I think - going from memory). So as a test, I unplugged the wire from the center stock horn and plugged it into the + terminal on the compressor, then I wired up a ground to the center stock horn ground (the metal tab that holds the horn to the radiator bracket). Connected the other end to the negative terminal of the compressor and gave the horn a good test.
"Wooaaaaaaaaaaahhhhh!" It works! Not too high pitched, loud as heck, sounds good.
OK, where to mount. This is always the hardest part. At first I thought that the best place would be to mount the horn behind the drivers side headlight. There is JUST enough room there, some metal parts to bolt it to, etc. Then I noticed the little bracket next to the intercooler. It has a threaded bolt hole with nothing attached. (What is supposed to be there?) The bolt that comes with the horn fits perfectly there. Only problem is that it is right above the exhaust. Could it melt the plastic or reduce the operating life of the horn? Possibly. I tried to fit the thing on there anyway, but I couldn't figure out how to tighten the bolt when it was attached to the threaded hole. So screw that idea. Back to the drivers-side headlight. Instead of bolting the thing in, I decided to zip tie it in.
[img]http://www.lightstormimages.com/gallery/cars/nasioc/horn/horn_underhood-03.jpg[/img]
I zip tied through a tube on the trumpet to the the battery hold-down bolt and I zip tied the "bracket" end of the horn to the hood release cable. I made sure to keep the trumpet end down in case any condensation forms, moisture will run down and out of the horn, not down and into the compressor.
[img]http://www.lightstormimages.com/gallery/cars/nasioc/horn/horn_underhood-02.jpg[/img]
I used red wire for everything since that is all I have and I am too sick to go out and buy any other color right now.
[img]http://www.lightstormimages.com/gallery/cars/nasioc/horn/horn_underhood-01.jpg[/img]
Looped the extra wire with some extra zip ties. I've learned not to "cut to perfectly fit" because it is a pain later when moving things around.
I wrapped one of those black wire covers around the wires behind the grill just for extra protection and to hide the redness.
[b]SOUND:[/b]
This is the most important part for those of you deciding what kind of horn to get. Recorded with my Nikon D100 portrait grip in the city, in an alley with a building on one side, and a fence on the other. So there is some echo from that.
INITIAL TEST:
WAV: [url=http://www.lightstormimages.com/gallery/cars/nasioc/horn/Ext_hood_up_near-door.WAV]Hood up, standing next to the drivers-side door.[/url]
[img]http://www.lightstormimages.com/gallery/cars/nasioc/horn/horn_alarm_drivers_door.jpg[/img]
WAV: [url=http://www.lightstormimages.com/gallery/cars/nasioc/horn/Ext_drivers_door_ALARM.WAV]Setting off the alarm by opening the drivers-side door.[/url]
[img]http://www.lightstormimages.com/gallery/cars/nasioc/horn/horn_interior.jpg[/img]
WAV: [url=http://www.lightstormimages.com/gallery/cars/nasioc/horn/Interior_2_beeps.WAV]Two beeps from interior cabin, drivers seat, door closed.[/url]
[img]http://www.lightstormimages.com/gallery/cars/nasioc/horn/horn_panic_20_feet.jpg[/img]
WAV: [url=http://www.lightstormimages.com/gallery/cars/nasioc/horn/Ext_Panic_10_feet.WAV]Exterior, about 10 feet away from front bumper, PANIC FEATURE.[/url]
[b]PROBLEMS:[/b]
[img]http://www.lightstormimages.com/gallery/cars/nasioc/horn/horn_bumper_finder.jpg[/img]
WAV: [url=http://www.lightstormimages.com/gallery/cars/nasioc/horn/Ext_finder_2_feet.WAV]CAR FINDER feature.[/url] (You can only hear the compressor winding up, not sounding - 3 times)
The horn does not sound because the pulse to the horn is too short and the compressor can't get up enough steam quick enough to sound. :( The lights still blink, and you can hear the compressor whirring up, but no more horn with this feature. Unfortunate. Perhaps someone knows a way of extending that electrical pulse from the stock Subaru alarm so that the horn gets a chance to sound.
[b]DRIVING IMPRESSIONS:[/b]
It works. I honked at a few people today on the drive from the Western Suburbs of Chicago to the North Side. Lots of traffic. I only honked once but I seemed to get a reaction from the dummy in front of me instead of the usual "laugh and ignore" response the stock horn usually gets. There doesn't seem to be any "power drain" when I honk. No dimming of the interior lights or anything.
The panic feature sounds cool. Very fast. Very crisp. The alarm still sounds disturbing and different from other alarms, so someone might actually look at the car as it is being stolen. It is also surprisingly loud, especially with the hood up. So people trying to start the car from the engine bay will be deafened hopefully for a little while. Might actually be a deterant.
Overall, this is a great buy so far. I am happy with the quality and initial impressions are very good (keep in mind I put it in this morning). The horn looks big in the pics on Griots Garage, but it isn't big at all. At $39.99 USD, it is in line with a Hella or a Fiamm set, but I am willing to bet that this will be much more reliable. I have had the old compressor/trumpet/plastic hose setup on all of my other cars and have hated the fact that they need yearly upkeep or repair. This looks like it might be pretty much maintenance-free, as a horn should be. It is much much better than the horrible stock horn and looks better too, I think. Adds some color to the engine compartment and will match the STI engine.
Hope this thread helps you make your horn decision a little easier.
[img]http://www.griotsgarage.com/images/products/lg/77839_LG.jpg[/img]
I purchased it online from [url=http://www.griotsgarage.com/search.jsp?searchtext=77839]GriotsGarage.com[/url].
The package came with a nice letter thanking me for my purchase, thanking me for trusting them to provide a quality product, and basically saying some nice things to give the purchaser a "nice doing business with you" feeling. It also came with a new catalog, p/o, a pretty postcard of one of their catalog covers (usually featuring some awesome Ferrari or Lotus), lots of packing material, and that's it. They could have just sent the horn, but they really packed it well inside another box. Nice.
[b]CONTENTS OF PACKAGE:[/b]
The horn comes with instructions, the compressor/trumpet, a relay, bolt, nut, and a plastic fitting with teeth used for mounting with the bolt and nut.
[b]INITIAL IMPRESSIONS:[/b]
The horn is a LOT smaller than the picture. I was worried that I wouldn't be able to install this mother anywhere when I first saw the pic. But I decided to just take the plunge and cross that bridge later (not to mix metaphors). The terminals on the compressor are clearly labeled with + and _. Nice. The trumpet is plastic and thick, though you can see a smear from the mold process on the front. Something to keep in mind if you are going to prominantly display this thing. The bolt that came with the kit fits securely onto the compressor mount preventing it from spinning. That way, you can just tighten the nut and not have to hold the bolt at the same time. Not all compressors have this. This is a great feature. The compressor itself is about 20-30% smaller than a normal compressor you would get from Fiamm or Hella. I suppose this is because the compressor doesn't need to compensate for expansion of the tubing since it is connected directly to the trumpets. Cool. Whatever. As long as it works.
[b]INSTALLATION:[/b]
Install was as simple as falling off a curb. According to the directions, you don't need to wire up a relay unless the car is older than 1975 (I think - going from memory). So as a test, I unplugged the wire from the center stock horn and plugged it into the + terminal on the compressor, then I wired up a ground to the center stock horn ground (the metal tab that holds the horn to the radiator bracket). Connected the other end to the negative terminal of the compressor and gave the horn a good test.
"Wooaaaaaaaaaaahhhhh!" It works! Not too high pitched, loud as heck, sounds good.
OK, where to mount. This is always the hardest part. At first I thought that the best place would be to mount the horn behind the drivers side headlight. There is JUST enough room there, some metal parts to bolt it to, etc. Then I noticed the little bracket next to the intercooler. It has a threaded bolt hole with nothing attached. (What is supposed to be there?) The bolt that comes with the horn fits perfectly there. Only problem is that it is right above the exhaust. Could it melt the plastic or reduce the operating life of the horn? Possibly. I tried to fit the thing on there anyway, but I couldn't figure out how to tighten the bolt when it was attached to the threaded hole. So screw that idea. Back to the drivers-side headlight. Instead of bolting the thing in, I decided to zip tie it in.
[img]http://www.lightstormimages.com/gallery/cars/nasioc/horn/horn_underhood-03.jpg[/img]
I zip tied through a tube on the trumpet to the the battery hold-down bolt and I zip tied the "bracket" end of the horn to the hood release cable. I made sure to keep the trumpet end down in case any condensation forms, moisture will run down and out of the horn, not down and into the compressor.
[img]http://www.lightstormimages.com/gallery/cars/nasioc/horn/horn_underhood-02.jpg[/img]
I used red wire for everything since that is all I have and I am too sick to go out and buy any other color right now.
[img]http://www.lightstormimages.com/gallery/cars/nasioc/horn/horn_underhood-01.jpg[/img]
Looped the extra wire with some extra zip ties. I've learned not to "cut to perfectly fit" because it is a pain later when moving things around.
I wrapped one of those black wire covers around the wires behind the grill just for extra protection and to hide the redness.
[b]SOUND:[/b]
This is the most important part for those of you deciding what kind of horn to get. Recorded with my Nikon D100 portrait grip in the city, in an alley with a building on one side, and a fence on the other. So there is some echo from that.
INITIAL TEST:
WAV: [url=http://www.lightstormimages.com/gallery/cars/nasioc/horn/Ext_hood_up_near-door.WAV]Hood up, standing next to the drivers-side door.[/url]
[img]http://www.lightstormimages.com/gallery/cars/nasioc/horn/horn_alarm_drivers_door.jpg[/img]
WAV: [url=http://www.lightstormimages.com/gallery/cars/nasioc/horn/Ext_drivers_door_ALARM.WAV]Setting off the alarm by opening the drivers-side door.[/url]
[img]http://www.lightstormimages.com/gallery/cars/nasioc/horn/horn_interior.jpg[/img]
WAV: [url=http://www.lightstormimages.com/gallery/cars/nasioc/horn/Interior_2_beeps.WAV]Two beeps from interior cabin, drivers seat, door closed.[/url]
[img]http://www.lightstormimages.com/gallery/cars/nasioc/horn/horn_panic_20_feet.jpg[/img]
WAV: [url=http://www.lightstormimages.com/gallery/cars/nasioc/horn/Ext_Panic_10_feet.WAV]Exterior, about 10 feet away from front bumper, PANIC FEATURE.[/url]
[b]PROBLEMS:[/b]
[img]http://www.lightstormimages.com/gallery/cars/nasioc/horn/horn_bumper_finder.jpg[/img]
WAV: [url=http://www.lightstormimages.com/gallery/cars/nasioc/horn/Ext_finder_2_feet.WAV]CAR FINDER feature.[/url] (You can only hear the compressor winding up, not sounding - 3 times)
The horn does not sound because the pulse to the horn is too short and the compressor can't get up enough steam quick enough to sound. :( The lights still blink, and you can hear the compressor whirring up, but no more horn with this feature. Unfortunate. Perhaps someone knows a way of extending that electrical pulse from the stock Subaru alarm so that the horn gets a chance to sound.
[b]DRIVING IMPRESSIONS:[/b]
It works. I honked at a few people today on the drive from the Western Suburbs of Chicago to the North Side. Lots of traffic. I only honked once but I seemed to get a reaction from the dummy in front of me instead of the usual "laugh and ignore" response the stock horn usually gets. There doesn't seem to be any "power drain" when I honk. No dimming of the interior lights or anything.
The panic feature sounds cool. Very fast. Very crisp. The alarm still sounds disturbing and different from other alarms, so someone might actually look at the car as it is being stolen. It is also surprisingly loud, especially with the hood up. So people trying to start the car from the engine bay will be deafened hopefully for a little while. Might actually be a deterant.
Overall, this is a great buy so far. I am happy with the quality and initial impressions are very good (keep in mind I put it in this morning). The horn looks big in the pics on Griots Garage, but it isn't big at all. At $39.99 USD, it is in line with a Hella or a Fiamm set, but I am willing to bet that this will be much more reliable. I have had the old compressor/trumpet/plastic hose setup on all of my other cars and have hated the fact that they need yearly upkeep or repair. This looks like it might be pretty much maintenance-free, as a horn should be. It is much much better than the horrible stock horn and looks better too, I think. Adds some color to the engine compartment and will match the STI engine.
Hope this thread helps you make your horn decision a little easier.
| iofdetiger | 11-20-2004 06:43 PM |
yes! screw the supertones!
| Jonnyfilmboy | 11-20-2004 06:55 PM |
haha
| scooby_snack | 11-20-2004 09:46 PM |
Awesome, love it, might just have to order me one =)
| maestro | 11-20-2004 10:05 PM |
Well done. Nice write-up and sound files.
Italian air horns are the original and best IMO, and I don't buy German (supertones), so I will definitely be purchasing a set. Thanks again.
Italian air horns are the original and best IMO, and I don't buy German (supertones), so I will definitely be purchasing a set. Thanks again.
| gargleblaster | 11-20-2004 10:13 PM |
Thanks for the detailed review. Definitely the kind of sound I'm looking for in my replacement horns. I have to say though that the loudness of the panic from 10ft did not seem terribly overwhemling. Is this because you used a digital camera to record the sound? The mic on my Dimage 7i gets sound via 6 pin holes in the front of the camera. Not exactly hi-fi.
| Capt Crunch | 11-20-2004 10:59 PM |
Looks cool, but sounds prissy to me. When I honk I'm angry.
| Jonnyfilmboy | 11-20-2004 11:14 PM |
gargleblaster, the sound seems quiet because of the small recording device I was using to record it with. I think the sound recorder on my camera is really meant for someone speaking directly into the camera to make notes on photos and stuff. It sounds a lot louder in person. Don't worry about it being quiet.
Capt Crunch, to each his own. I was actually a little surprised that they sounded so deep-pitched, if that is the right word. Most horns I have had before were much higher pitched. Either way, the horn is different from other horns on the road, and to me that is important. Same reason cops have those weird frog horns. They are different and they get people's attention.
You bring up a good point though. These horns can be modulated. So if you quickly and lightly tap on the horn button, you can give people a little whistle or toot to tell them that the light has turned green or whatever. It will alert them, not scare them. But, if you are slamming on the brakes or swerving, you can mash the horn button and the horn will let out a full blast which will scare people or at least surprise them. I think different times call for different horns.
Capt Crunch, to each his own. I was actually a little surprised that they sounded so deep-pitched, if that is the right word. Most horns I have had before were much higher pitched. Either way, the horn is different from other horns on the road, and to me that is important. Same reason cops have those weird frog horns. They are different and they get people's attention.
You bring up a good point though. These horns can be modulated. So if you quickly and lightly tap on the horn button, you can give people a little whistle or toot to tell them that the light has turned green or whatever. It will alert them, not scare them. But, if you are slamming on the brakes or swerving, you can mash the horn button and the horn will let out a full blast which will scare people or at least surprise them. I think different times call for different horns.
| rich22 | 11-20-2004 11:16 PM |
anyone try to get a MAC truck horn ever? :D
| AdamRX | 11-21-2004 08:57 AM |
good write up! I need one
| Unabomber | 11-21-2004 01:52 PM |
[QUOTE=iofdetiger]yes! screw the supertones![/QUOTE]
[img]http://www.wallpaperinstaller.com/scooby/horns.jpg[/img]
You talkin' to me?
Nice write up! Glad you like em, but I'm slightly skewed towards PAIN verses a normal upgrade.
[img]http://www.wallpaperinstaller.com/scooby/horns.jpg[/img]
You talkin' to me?
Nice write up! Glad you like em, but I'm slightly skewed towards PAIN verses a normal upgrade.
| AndyWRXWG | 11-21-2004 02:37 PM |
damn unabomber I'd hate to fall asleep in front of you at a light. talk about serious noise.
| gregr01 | 11-21-2004 04:03 PM |
the most impressive write-up I've ever seen about a horn. :disco:
| NLWRX2004 | 11-21-2004 05:56 PM |
[QUOTE=Jonnyfilmboy]I just installed this horn today into my 2004 WRX:
[img]http://www.griotsgarage.com/images/products/lg/77839_LG.jpg[/img]
I purchased it online from [url=http://www.griotsgarage.com/search.jsp?searchtext=77839]GriotsGarage.com[/url].
The package came with a nice letter thanking me for my purchase, thanking me for trusting them to provide a quality product, and basically saying some nice things to give the purchaser a "nice doing business with you" feeling. It also came with a new catalog, p/o, a pretty postcard of one of their catalog covers (usually featuring some awesome Ferrari or Lotus), lots of packing material, and that's it. They could have just sent the horn, but they really packed it well inside another box. Nice.
[b]CONTENTS OF PACKAGE:[/b]
The horn comes with instructions, the compressor/trumpet, a relay, bolt, nut, and a plastic fitting with teeth used for mounting with the bolt and nut.
[b]INITIAL IMPRESSIONS:[/b]
The horn is a LOT smaller than the picture. I was worried that I wouldn't be able to install this mother anywhere when I first saw the pic. But I decided to just take the plunge and cross that bridge later (not to mix metaphors). The terminals on the compressor are clearly labeled with + and _. Nice. The trumpet is plastic and thick, though you can see a smear from the mold process on the front. Something to keep in mind if you are going to prominantly display this thing. The bolt that came with the kit fits securely onto the compressor mount preventing it from spinning. That way, you can just tighten the nut and not have to hold the bolt at the same time. Not all compressors have this. This is a great feature. The compressor itself is about 20-30% smaller than a normal compressor you would get from Fiamm or Hella. I suppose this is because the compressor doesn't need to compensate for expansion of the tubing since it is connected directly to the trumpets. Cool. Whatever. As long as it works.
[b]INSTALLATION:[/b]
Install was as simple as falling off a curb. According to the directions, you don't need to wire up a relay unless the car is older than 1975 (I think - going from memory). So as a test, I unplugged the wire from the center stock horn and plugged it into the + terminal on the compressor, then I wired up a ground to the center stock horn ground (the metal tab that holds the horn to the radiator bracket). Connected the other end to the negative terminal of the compressor and gave the horn a good test.
"Wooaaaaaaaaaaahhhhh!" It works! Not too high pitched, loud as heck, sounds good.
OK, where to mount. This is always the hardest part. At first I thought that the best place would be to mount the horn behind the drivers side headlight. There is JUST enough room there, some metal parts to bolt it to, etc. Then I noticed the little bracket next to the intercooler. It has a threaded bolt hole with nothing attached. (What is supposed to be there?) The bolt that comes with the horn fits perfectly there. Only problem is that it is right above the exhaust. Could it melt the plastic or reduce the operating life of the horn? Possibly. I tried to fit the thing on there anyway, but I couldn't figure out how to tighten the bolt when it was attached to the threaded hole. So screw that idea. Back to the drivers-side headlight. Instead of bolting the thing in, I decided to zip tie it in.
[img]http://www.lightstormimages.com/gallery/cars/nasioc/horn/horn_underhood-03.jpg[/img]
I zip tied through a tube on the trumpet to the the battery hold-down bolt and I zip tied the "bracket" end of the horn to the hood release cable. I made sure to keep the trumpet end down in case any condensation forms, moisture will run down and out of the horn, not down and into the compressor.
[img]http://www.lightstormimages.com/gallery/cars/nasioc/horn/horn_underhood-02.jpg[/img]
I used red wire for everything since that is all I have and I am too sick to go out and buy any other color right now.
[img]http://www.lightstormimages.com/gallery/cars/nasioc/horn/horn_underhood-01.jpg[/img]
Looped the extra wire with some extra zip ties. I've learned not to "cut to perfectly fit" because it is a pain later when moving things around.
I wrapped one of those black wire covers around the wires behind the grill just for extra protection and to hide the redness.
[b]SOUND:[/b]
This is the most important part for those of you deciding what kind of horn to get. Recorded with my Nikon D100 portrait grip in the city, in an alley with a building on one side, and a fence on the other. So there is some echo from that.
INITIAL TEST:
WAV: [url=http://www.lightstormimages.com/gallery/cars/nasioc/horn/Ext_hood_up_near-door.WAV]Hood up, standing next to the drivers-side door.[/url]
[img]http://www.lightstormimages.com/gallery/cars/nasioc/horn/horn_alarm_drivers_door.jpg[/img]
WAV: [url=http://www.lightstormimages.com/gallery/cars/nasioc/horn/Ext_drivers_door_ALARM.WAV]Setting off the alarm by opening the drivers-side door.[/url]
[img]http://www.lightstormimages.com/gallery/cars/nasioc/horn/horn_interior.jpg[/img]
WAV: [url=http://www.lightstormimages.com/gallery/cars/nasioc/horn/Interior_2_beeps.WAV]Two beeps from interior cabin, drivers seat, door closed.[/url]
[img]http://www.lightstormimages.com/gallery/cars/nasioc/horn/horn_panic_20_feet.jpg[/img]
WAV: [url=http://www.lightstormimages.com/gallery/cars/nasioc/horn/Ext_Panic_10_feet.WAV]Exterior, about 10 feet away from front bumper, PANIC FEATURE.[/url]
[b]PROBLEMS:[/b]
[img]http://www.lightstormimages.com/gallery/cars/nasioc/horn/horn_bumper_finder.jpg[/img]
WAV: [url=http://www.lightstormimages.com/gallery/cars/nasioc/horn/Ext_finder_2_feet.WAV]CAR FINDER feature.[/url] (You can only hear the compressor winding up, not sounding - 3 times)
The horn does not sound because the pulse to the horn is too short and the compressor can't get up enough steam quick enough to sound. :( The lights still blink, and you can hear the compressor whirring up, but no more horn with this feature. Unfortunate. Perhaps someone knows a way of extending that electrical pulse from the stock Subaru alarm so that the horn gets a chance to sound.
[b]DRIVING IMPRESSIONS:[/b]
It works. I honked at a few people today on the drive from the Western Suburbs of Chicago to the North Side. Lots of traffic. I only honked once but I seemed to get a reaction from the dummy in front of me instead of the usual "laugh and ignore" response the stock horn usually gets. There doesn't seem to be any "power drain" when I honk. No dimming of the interior lights or anything.
The panic feature sounds cool. Very fast. Very crisp. The alarm still sounds disturbing and different from other alarms, so someone might actually look at the car as it is being stolen. It is also surprisingly loud, especially with the hood up. So people trying to start the car from the engine bay will be deafened hopefully for a little while. Might actually be a deterant.
Overall, this is a great buy so far. I am happy with the quality and initial impressions are very good (keep in mind I put it in this morning). The horn looks big in the pics on Griots Garage, but it isn't big at all. At $39.99 USD, it is in line with a Hella or a Fiamm set, but I am willing to bet that this will be much more reliable. I have had the old compressor/trumpet/plastic hose setup on all of my other cars and have hated the fact that they need yearly upkeep or repair. This looks like it might be pretty much maintenance-free, as a horn should be. It is much much better than the horrible stock horn and looks better too, I think. Adds some color to the engine compartment and will match the STI engine.
Hope this thread helps you make your horn decision a little easier.[/QUOTE]
sorry not about the horn (wich is awsome) what spoiler is that you have on your trunk??
[img]http://www.griotsgarage.com/images/products/lg/77839_LG.jpg[/img]
I purchased it online from [url=http://www.griotsgarage.com/search.jsp?searchtext=77839]GriotsGarage.com[/url].
The package came with a nice letter thanking me for my purchase, thanking me for trusting them to provide a quality product, and basically saying some nice things to give the purchaser a "nice doing business with you" feeling. It also came with a new catalog, p/o, a pretty postcard of one of their catalog covers (usually featuring some awesome Ferrari or Lotus), lots of packing material, and that's it. They could have just sent the horn, but they really packed it well inside another box. Nice.
[b]CONTENTS OF PACKAGE:[/b]
The horn comes with instructions, the compressor/trumpet, a relay, bolt, nut, and a plastic fitting with teeth used for mounting with the bolt and nut.
[b]INITIAL IMPRESSIONS:[/b]
The horn is a LOT smaller than the picture. I was worried that I wouldn't be able to install this mother anywhere when I first saw the pic. But I decided to just take the plunge and cross that bridge later (not to mix metaphors). The terminals on the compressor are clearly labeled with + and _. Nice. The trumpet is plastic and thick, though you can see a smear from the mold process on the front. Something to keep in mind if you are going to prominantly display this thing. The bolt that came with the kit fits securely onto the compressor mount preventing it from spinning. That way, you can just tighten the nut and not have to hold the bolt at the same time. Not all compressors have this. This is a great feature. The compressor itself is about 20-30% smaller than a normal compressor you would get from Fiamm or Hella. I suppose this is because the compressor doesn't need to compensate for expansion of the tubing since it is connected directly to the trumpets. Cool. Whatever. As long as it works.
[b]INSTALLATION:[/b]
Install was as simple as falling off a curb. According to the directions, you don't need to wire up a relay unless the car is older than 1975 (I think - going from memory). So as a test, I unplugged the wire from the center stock horn and plugged it into the + terminal on the compressor, then I wired up a ground to the center stock horn ground (the metal tab that holds the horn to the radiator bracket). Connected the other end to the negative terminal of the compressor and gave the horn a good test.
"Wooaaaaaaaaaaahhhhh!" It works! Not too high pitched, loud as heck, sounds good.
OK, where to mount. This is always the hardest part. At first I thought that the best place would be to mount the horn behind the drivers side headlight. There is JUST enough room there, some metal parts to bolt it to, etc. Then I noticed the little bracket next to the intercooler. It has a threaded bolt hole with nothing attached. (What is supposed to be there?) The bolt that comes with the horn fits perfectly there. Only problem is that it is right above the exhaust. Could it melt the plastic or reduce the operating life of the horn? Possibly. I tried to fit the thing on there anyway, but I couldn't figure out how to tighten the bolt when it was attached to the threaded hole. So screw that idea. Back to the drivers-side headlight. Instead of bolting the thing in, I decided to zip tie it in.
[img]http://www.lightstormimages.com/gallery/cars/nasioc/horn/horn_underhood-03.jpg[/img]
I zip tied through a tube on the trumpet to the the battery hold-down bolt and I zip tied the "bracket" end of the horn to the hood release cable. I made sure to keep the trumpet end down in case any condensation forms, moisture will run down and out of the horn, not down and into the compressor.
[img]http://www.lightstormimages.com/gallery/cars/nasioc/horn/horn_underhood-02.jpg[/img]
I used red wire for everything since that is all I have and I am too sick to go out and buy any other color right now.
[img]http://www.lightstormimages.com/gallery/cars/nasioc/horn/horn_underhood-01.jpg[/img]
Looped the extra wire with some extra zip ties. I've learned not to "cut to perfectly fit" because it is a pain later when moving things around.
I wrapped one of those black wire covers around the wires behind the grill just for extra protection and to hide the redness.
[b]SOUND:[/b]
This is the most important part for those of you deciding what kind of horn to get. Recorded with my Nikon D100 portrait grip in the city, in an alley with a building on one side, and a fence on the other. So there is some echo from that.
INITIAL TEST:
WAV: [url=http://www.lightstormimages.com/gallery/cars/nasioc/horn/Ext_hood_up_near-door.WAV]Hood up, standing next to the drivers-side door.[/url]
[img]http://www.lightstormimages.com/gallery/cars/nasioc/horn/horn_alarm_drivers_door.jpg[/img]
WAV: [url=http://www.lightstormimages.com/gallery/cars/nasioc/horn/Ext_drivers_door_ALARM.WAV]Setting off the alarm by opening the drivers-side door.[/url]
[img]http://www.lightstormimages.com/gallery/cars/nasioc/horn/horn_interior.jpg[/img]
WAV: [url=http://www.lightstormimages.com/gallery/cars/nasioc/horn/Interior_2_beeps.WAV]Two beeps from interior cabin, drivers seat, door closed.[/url]
[img]http://www.lightstormimages.com/gallery/cars/nasioc/horn/horn_panic_20_feet.jpg[/img]
WAV: [url=http://www.lightstormimages.com/gallery/cars/nasioc/horn/Ext_Panic_10_feet.WAV]Exterior, about 10 feet away from front bumper, PANIC FEATURE.[/url]
[b]PROBLEMS:[/b]
[img]http://www.lightstormimages.com/gallery/cars/nasioc/horn/horn_bumper_finder.jpg[/img]
WAV: [url=http://www.lightstormimages.com/gallery/cars/nasioc/horn/Ext_finder_2_feet.WAV]CAR FINDER feature.[/url] (You can only hear the compressor winding up, not sounding - 3 times)
The horn does not sound because the pulse to the horn is too short and the compressor can't get up enough steam quick enough to sound. :( The lights still blink, and you can hear the compressor whirring up, but no more horn with this feature. Unfortunate. Perhaps someone knows a way of extending that electrical pulse from the stock Subaru alarm so that the horn gets a chance to sound.
[b]DRIVING IMPRESSIONS:[/b]
It works. I honked at a few people today on the drive from the Western Suburbs of Chicago to the North Side. Lots of traffic. I only honked once but I seemed to get a reaction from the dummy in front of me instead of the usual "laugh and ignore" response the stock horn usually gets. There doesn't seem to be any "power drain" when I honk. No dimming of the interior lights or anything.
The panic feature sounds cool. Very fast. Very crisp. The alarm still sounds disturbing and different from other alarms, so someone might actually look at the car as it is being stolen. It is also surprisingly loud, especially with the hood up. So people trying to start the car from the engine bay will be deafened hopefully for a little while. Might actually be a deterant.
Overall, this is a great buy so far. I am happy with the quality and initial impressions are very good (keep in mind I put it in this morning). The horn looks big in the pics on Griots Garage, but it isn't big at all. At $39.99 USD, it is in line with a Hella or a Fiamm set, but I am willing to bet that this will be much more reliable. I have had the old compressor/trumpet/plastic hose setup on all of my other cars and have hated the fact that they need yearly upkeep or repair. This looks like it might be pretty much maintenance-free, as a horn should be. It is much much better than the horrible stock horn and looks better too, I think. Adds some color to the engine compartment and will match the STI engine.
Hope this thread helps you make your horn decision a little easier.[/QUOTE]
sorry not about the horn (wich is awsome) what spoiler is that you have on your trunk??
| Fijimunkii | 11-21-2004 07:05 PM |
[QUOTE=NLWRX2004]sorry not about the horn (wich is awsome) what spoiler is that you have on your trunk??[/QUOTE]
Way to quote his entire post
Way to quote his entire post
| kenlee | 11-21-2004 07:34 PM |
Looks to be a zerosports spoiler or replica of it.
| rich22 | 11-21-2004 07:35 PM |
[QUOTE=Unabomber][img]http://www.wallpaperinstaller.com/scooby/horns.jpg[/img]
You talkin' to me?
Nice write up! Glad you like em, but I'm slightly skewed towards PAIN verses a normal upgrade.[/QUOTE]
Lets hear your horn!
You talkin' to me?
Nice write up! Glad you like em, but I'm slightly skewed towards PAIN verses a normal upgrade.[/QUOTE]
Lets hear your horn!
| kennyvb | 11-21-2004 08:45 PM |
that's cool; i could never justify spending money on a new horn when i will never use it!
| DDMan | 11-21-2004 09:42 PM |
[QUOTE=kennyvb]that's cool; i could never justify spending money on a new horn when i will never use it![/QUOTE]
You live in So. Cal and never use your horn???
I bought my Supertones specifically because of the idiots on the road which cant seem to drive properly....and I live in Nor-Cal.
You live in So. Cal and never use your horn???
I bought my Supertones specifically because of the idiots on the road which cant seem to drive properly....and I live in Nor-Cal.
| SLIGHTLY | 11-22-2004 12:19 AM |
Wonder if any one has the supertones recorded like that. That horn kinda reminds me of what i would expect an MGB to sound like.
| David Medina | 11-22-2004 02:06 AM |
[QUOTE=Capt Crunch]Looks cool, but sounds prissy to me. When I honk I'm angry.[/QUOTE]
ditto
ditto
| typeRS | 11-22-2004 09:02 AM |
Sounds nice, and nice install write up. The sound clips are definitely nice to have. :banana:
| kennyvb | 11-22-2004 12:02 PM |
[QUOTE=DDMan]You live in So. Cal and never use your horn???
I bought my Supertones specifically because of the idiots on the road which cant seem to drive properly....and I live in Nor-Cal.[/QUOTE]
never
I bought my Supertones specifically because of the idiots on the road which cant seem to drive properly....and I live in Nor-Cal.[/QUOTE]
never
| Jonnyfilmboy | 11-25-2004 01:17 AM |
[QUOTE=NLWRX2004]sorry not about the horn (wich is awsome) what spoiler is that you have on your trunk??[/QUOTE]
Zerosports it is. It was on my car when I bought it. I was going to replace it, but it is growing on me. Girls I know don't seem to like it but most guys I talk to at gas stations do. Hmmmmmmm.
Zerosports it is. It was on my car when I bought it. I was going to replace it, but it is growing on me. Girls I know don't seem to like it but most guys I talk to at gas stations do. Hmmmmmmm.
| Jonnyfilmboy | 11-25-2004 01:20 AM |
[QUOTE=kennyvb]that's cool; i could never justify spending money on a new horn when i will never use it![/QUOTE]
I live on the North Side of Chicago. Lots of transplants from India, Czech Republic, and other parts of the world that don't have traffic laws. Also, lots of idiotic selfish drivers. You NEED a good horn around here.
I live on the North Side of Chicago. Lots of transplants from India, Czech Republic, and other parts of the world that don't have traffic laws. Also, lots of idiotic selfish drivers. You NEED a good horn around here.
| engineerx | 01-02-2005 06:51 PM |
Hey JONNYFILMBOY - nice write- got me convinced, I'm from the "sound different - lower note" camp.....
I don't like the high-pitched Hella or Jap OEM sound
[url]http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/showpost.php?p=8322752&postcount=56[/url]
The ULTIMATE would be
JONNYFILMBOY's set up + 1/2 UNABOMBER setup
then wire them w/ a toggle switch so you can choose according to your mood or you can blast both at the same time or alternating sounds so anyone getting in frotn of you will really get the living daylights scared out of them (they'll think they cut 2 cars instead of just one!)
I'm gonna order from Griots' @ $40 sounds good to me!
Thanks for awesome review!
Honk to the top !
I don't like the high-pitched Hella or Jap OEM sound
[url]http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/showpost.php?p=8322752&postcount=56[/url]
The ULTIMATE would be
JONNYFILMBOY's set up + 1/2 UNABOMBER setup
then wire them w/ a toggle switch so you can choose according to your mood or you can blast both at the same time or alternating sounds so anyone getting in frotn of you will really get the living daylights scared out of them (they'll think they cut 2 cars instead of just one!)
I'm gonna order from Griots' @ $40 sounds good to me!
Thanks for awesome review!
Honk to the top !
| Filanwizard | 01-03-2005 03:40 PM |
i once saw a baja with the horns from a Kenworth lmao.
| Jonnyfilmboy | 07-31-2005 11:51 AM |
Winter Update
�
�
OK, so I spent the first winter with these horns. Like typical air horns, they do get some humidity in them that cause them to not work as well (take longer to beep). But unlike typical air horns, they always worked. They never froze up.
| Jonnyfilmboy | 07-31-2005 11:55 AM |
Warranty Update
�
�
Recently I took my car in to get the transmission and brakes worked on under warranty. I figured I would get the keyless entry alarm electronic "beep" fixed at the same time. But the service supervisor guy at Evanston Subaru said,
"We didn't work on that because my tech says there's all sorts of wiring criss crossing all over the place under there. Lots of aftermarket stuff with your aftermarket horn on there."
Total b.s. to me. Like arguing that they wouldn't fix a cracked wheel because of aftermarket valve caps. So they said that I would have to take it out and re-hook up the old horns before they would work on the keyless entry beep. But once I did that, the beep would be covered by the warranty.
"We didn't work on that because my tech says there's all sorts of wiring criss crossing all over the place under there. Lots of aftermarket stuff with your aftermarket horn on there."
Total b.s. to me. Like arguing that they wouldn't fix a cracked wheel because of aftermarket valve caps. So they said that I would have to take it out and re-hook up the old horns before they would work on the keyless entry beep. But once I did that, the beep would be covered by the warranty.
| John2.5RS | 07-31-2005 06:54 PM |
gotta love it
�
�
Ya, dealerships suck.
| BajaGirl | 08-01-2005 09:27 AM |
if u used the relay and powered it directly off the battery it will be louder.
| Thingfish | 08-01-2005 09:36 AM |
Honk!
| Phy6 | 08-01-2005 02:45 PM |
I was considering these over the hella supertones, but then i re-read the specs and they are 139dB at 4", not 1 meter. =( Glad to hear they are smaller than they look, though!
| Jonnyfilmboy | 08-02-2005 01:08 AM |
Well, if you are going just for the db rating, then go with the Supertones. But I think the Supertones sound terrible.
| Petrus | 08-02-2005 04:02 AM |
Dude, you're going to make someone **** themselves with that new horn :lol:
| Jeff-cc | 08-31-2005 10:32 AM |
On the webpage it says 139dB at 4 feet, not 4 inches.
4 feet =1.2192 meter
So, 4 feet > 1 meter
4 feet =1.2192 meter
So, 4 feet > 1 meter
| IntraWRX | 08-31-2005 11:03 AM |
nice writeup! i've got a set of supertones just installed, and boy are they fun :devil:
| FuJi K | 08-31-2005 11:25 AM |
A few days ago I grabbed 2 snail type horns from a Pontiac Bonneville and finished hooking them up a few nights ago. They're really nice too. So basically mine sounds like a GM.
| MMBOOST | 08-31-2005 02:45 PM |
[img]http://www.midwayautosupply.com/images/wolo/837_3X.jpg[/img]
*drool*
I will never be satisfied until I can have 152dB of 150Hz making people crap in their pants.
[url]http://www.midwayautosupply.com/detailedproductdescription.asp?11218[/url]
*drool*
I will never be satisfied until I can have 152dB of 150Hz making people crap in their pants.
[url]http://www.midwayautosupply.com/detailedproductdescription.asp?11218[/url]
| specialev | 08-31-2005 02:56 PM |
Those look sweet, but where the heck would you put them for optimum blasting?
| MMBOOST | 08-31-2005 03:38 PM |
where else....
[size=4][b]ON THE ROOF!!![/b][/size] :D
[size=4][b]ON THE ROOF!!![/b][/size] :D
| STI4ME | 09-28-2005 05:05 PM |
I replaced the Hella Supertones with this Italian horn 2 weeks ago and I'm liking this so much more. Louder and sounds wayyyy better, like a (duh) Italian car. Doesn't have that high pitch OEM sound that the Hella makes. And for a really good price too. I mounted mine in the driver's side fender well.
| Phy6 | 09-28-2005 06:30 PM |
[QUOTE=Jeff-cc]On the webpage it says 139dB at 4 feet, not 4 inches.
4 feet =1.2192 meter
So, 4 feet > 1 meter[/QUOTE]
Ok, so i was wondering where I got the info of 139db at 4" and not 1 meter. Well I found the site again, it's the manufacturer!
I'm not knocking the product, and from the sound clips on the manufacturer site, I really like the sound they make.
Just making sure i did my homework right.
[url]www.stebel.it[/url]
It's under Nautilus
[IMG]http://www.phy6.net/blogs/STiBlog/hello/981028/1024/stebel-2005.09.28-15.29.06.jpg[/IMG]
4 feet =1.2192 meter
So, 4 feet > 1 meter[/QUOTE]
Ok, so i was wondering where I got the info of 139db at 4" and not 1 meter. Well I found the site again, it's the manufacturer!
I'm not knocking the product, and from the sound clips on the manufacturer site, I really like the sound they make.
Just making sure i did my homework right.
[url]www.stebel.it[/url]
It's under Nautilus
[IMG]http://www.phy6.net/blogs/STiBlog/hello/981028/1024/stebel-2005.09.28-15.29.06.jpg[/IMG]
| DSpirito | 09-28-2005 08:48 PM |
[QUOTE=MMBOOST][img]http://www.midwayautosupply.com/images/wolo/837_3X.jpg[/img]
*drool*
I will never be satisfied until I can have 152dB of 150Hz making people crap in their pants.
[url]http://www.midwayautosupply.com/detailedproductdescription.asp?11218[/url][/QUOTE]
*** i AGREE, im gonna go for the Semi like air horn ;) seriously i am.
*drool*
I will never be satisfied until I can have 152dB of 150Hz making people crap in their pants.
[url]http://www.midwayautosupply.com/detailedproductdescription.asp?11218[/url][/QUOTE]
*** i AGREE, im gonna go for the Semi like air horn ;) seriously i am.
| chris-man | 09-29-2005 12:09 AM |
thats funny :lol:
| animes2k | 09-29-2005 12:41 AM |
I think I might have to get this horn. I got the two mini horns (self-contained, no compressor) for the wagon and while they're nice and loud, they sound like a Buick instead of frilly Italian horns. They do get people's attention, though. Not bad for $25.
The Ferrari-spec horns on my S2000 don't have quite this sound, either - it's a dissonant tone, while these sounds very peppy.
The Ferrari-spec horns on my S2000 don't have quite this sound, either - it's a dissonant tone, while these sounds very peppy.
| Visco212 | 09-29-2005 01:41 AM |
anyone have a good sound clip of the supertones that I can compare these two horns? John
| moogoob | 09-29-2005 09:54 AM |
here/s the stock RS horns.
[url="http://home.comcast.net/~moogoob/stock%20horn%20vs%20hella%20supertones.mp3"]http://home.comcast.net/~moogoob/stock%20horn%20vs%20hella%20supertones.mp3[/url][url="http://home.comcast.net/~moogoob/stock%20horn%20vs%20hella%20supertones.mp3"][/url]
[url="http://home.comcast.net/~moogoob/stock%20horn%20vs%20hella%20supertones.mp3"]http://home.comcast.net/~moogoob/stock%20horn%20vs%20hella%20supertones.mp3[/url][url="http://home.comcast.net/~moogoob/stock%20horn%20vs%20hella%20supertones.mp3"][/url]
| WShade | 11-10-2005 03:41 PM |
[QUOTE=Jonnyfilmboy]I just installed this horn today into my 2004 WRX.[/QUOTE]
Mine is on the way. Thanks for the write up, it was the deciding factor for me. ;)
Mine is on the way. Thanks for the write up, it was the deciding factor for me. ;)
| drewzter | 11-10-2005 08:51 PM |
[QUOTE=DDMan]You live in So. Cal and never use your horn???
I bought my Supertones specifically because of the idiots on the road which cant seem to drive properly....and I live in Nor-Cal.[/QUOTE]
I just pass those drivers. Let someone else tangle with them. Great write up. I may get one. I almost never use a horn. I did today though. Dude did not see me and looked like he was coming right into my lane. Turns out he was old and could not see. He saw me PANIC and hit the brakes and horn then he just looks at me like , "What?" He did not even think he had erred but he was on the white line.
I bought my Supertones specifically because of the idiots on the road which cant seem to drive properly....and I live in Nor-Cal.[/QUOTE]
I just pass those drivers. Let someone else tangle with them. Great write up. I may get one. I almost never use a horn. I did today though. Dude did not see me and looked like he was coming right into my lane. Turns out he was old and could not see. He saw me PANIC and hit the brakes and horn then he just looks at me like , "What?" He did not even think he had erred but he was on the white line.
| Rickyh | 11-10-2005 09:12 PM |
Try this link. The name says it all.
[URL=http://www.reallyloudairhorns.com/]reallyloudairhorns.com[/URL]
[URL=http://www.reallyloudairhorns.com/]reallyloudairhorns.com[/URL]
| AcquaCow | 11-10-2005 09:16 PM |
I'm still going to rock two 118db supertones =)
It's easier to mount them in the front grille so that they project foward rather than resonate under the hood.
Allthough...that resonation may just make them louder...hmm...
I'll have to test.
-- Dave
It's easier to mount them in the front grille so that they project foward rather than resonate under the hood.
Allthough...that resonation may just make them louder...hmm...
I'll have to test.
-- Dave
| FuJi K | 11-13-2005 08:09 PM |
Speaking of horns, I have some Pontiac Bonneville horns on my Impreza. They're hi-low tone horns. I forgot the brand....but I took off some horns from an older Thunderbird, 93ish? Those are Fiamm horns, hi-low. I tested them but the Pontiac ones were of a lower note. The Fiamm ones from the thunderbird were slightly higher note.
Note bad for $6; $3 each at the local U PULL.
Note bad for $6; $3 each at the local U PULL.
| writersblock | 01-18-2006 10:56 AM |
I installed the Super Loud Italian Horn yesterday. I put it in the same place, but I made my own bracket that attaches to the battery platform below the battery box and aims the horns toward the left as you're facing the car. I wired it directly into one of the front horns and ran the ground to the main ground next to the battery. The horn truly scares people and my installation looks pretty much stock. I'll post photos next week.
Writersblock
Writersblock
| writersblock | 01-24-2006 06:54 PM |
I will detail how I did the install:
1) Remove your battery and the battery box (I have an Optima, but I'm certain this will work with the stock battery).
2) You'll need to make a bracket to hold the horn. I used a piece of 3/4 inch, 12-gauge steel. You'll make an L using a your method of choice (I used my bench vice and a ball-pean hammer).
3) You'll need to mock the horn in place to make sure you have it fitting correction. If it fits in the space and the top of the trumpet sits relatively flush with the top air conditioner hard line/hose, you're in the ballpark.
4) Drill your holes in the bracket. You'll need one at the top to hold the horn and two at the bottom. Make sure you position the bracket such that you have metal on the battery platform to drill into.
5) Drill your holes in the battery platform. From here, mounting the horn is relatively simply. I used stainless sheet metal screws to attach it to the battery platform.
6) Wiring. I am a bit anal about wiring, so I went the extra mile. First off, throw the included relay into your parts bin. The car already has a horn relay. I ran some 18-gauge wire to two terminals and slid them onto the horn. I then soldered them to the horn (make sure to observe polarity) and slipped heat shrink over the connections to keep them weather proof. Attache a spade onto the positive wire and run it to the horn connection on the driver's side (you'll see the driver's side horn). I attached the spade and again heat shrunk the connection. This makes it more difficult to remove, but by no means impossible and guarantees a good connection. Put a ring terminal on the end of the negative wire and run it to the main ground on the fender, adjacent to the battery.
7) Test it. If it works, tuck your wiring neatly away.
8) Also, you'll want to disable the vehicle find function on the alarm. One, it's annoying and two, the new horn won't work with it (Not that it's a big deal).
BTW, it's your choice to keep the other horns hooked up. I elected to unhook and remove them. If you think they sound bad on their own, try them with the great sound of this new horn! :furious:
Photos of the final product:
Side View
[IMG]http://www.charlottesteelers.com/Images/sidehorn.jpg[/IMG]
Right Side
[IMG]http://www.charlottesteelers.com/Images/backhorn.jpg[/IMG]
Top View
[IMG]http://www.charlottesteelers.com/Images/fronthonr.jpg[/IMG]
Close up. Pay attention to the bracket, which is circled.
[IMG]http://www.charlottesteelers.com/Images/closeuphorn.jpg[/IMG]
I hope this helps!
Writersblock
1) Remove your battery and the battery box (I have an Optima, but I'm certain this will work with the stock battery).
2) You'll need to make a bracket to hold the horn. I used a piece of 3/4 inch, 12-gauge steel. You'll make an L using a your method of choice (I used my bench vice and a ball-pean hammer).
3) You'll need to mock the horn in place to make sure you have it fitting correction. If it fits in the space and the top of the trumpet sits relatively flush with the top air conditioner hard line/hose, you're in the ballpark.
4) Drill your holes in the bracket. You'll need one at the top to hold the horn and two at the bottom. Make sure you position the bracket such that you have metal on the battery platform to drill into.
5) Drill your holes in the battery platform. From here, mounting the horn is relatively simply. I used stainless sheet metal screws to attach it to the battery platform.
6) Wiring. I am a bit anal about wiring, so I went the extra mile. First off, throw the included relay into your parts bin. The car already has a horn relay. I ran some 18-gauge wire to two terminals and slid them onto the horn. I then soldered them to the horn (make sure to observe polarity) and slipped heat shrink over the connections to keep them weather proof. Attache a spade onto the positive wire and run it to the horn connection on the driver's side (you'll see the driver's side horn). I attached the spade and again heat shrunk the connection. This makes it more difficult to remove, but by no means impossible and guarantees a good connection. Put a ring terminal on the end of the negative wire and run it to the main ground on the fender, adjacent to the battery.
7) Test it. If it works, tuck your wiring neatly away.
8) Also, you'll want to disable the vehicle find function on the alarm. One, it's annoying and two, the new horn won't work with it (Not that it's a big deal).
BTW, it's your choice to keep the other horns hooked up. I elected to unhook and remove them. If you think they sound bad on their own, try them with the great sound of this new horn! :furious:
Photos of the final product:
Side View
[IMG]http://www.charlottesteelers.com/Images/sidehorn.jpg[/IMG]
Right Side
[IMG]http://www.charlottesteelers.com/Images/backhorn.jpg[/IMG]
Top View
[IMG]http://www.charlottesteelers.com/Images/fronthonr.jpg[/IMG]
Close up. Pay attention to the bracket, which is circled.
[IMG]http://www.charlottesteelers.com/Images/closeuphorn.jpg[/IMG]
I hope this helps!
Writersblock
| Justin80 | 01-24-2006 06:59 PM |
[QUOTE=Jonnyfilmboy]I live on the North Side of Chicago. Lots of transplants from India, Czech Republic, and other parts of the world that don't have traffic laws. Also, lots of idiotic selfish drivers. You NEED a good horn around here.[/QUOTE]
+1 I feel ya on the Nawf Syde driving.
+1 I feel ya on the Nawf Syde driving.
| Jonnyfilmboy | 01-24-2006 10:00 PM |
Man, this thread is still going? A monster I created (read in Yoda voice). Meow that's a long time!
Writersblock, thanks for the writeup. Looks saweet. But man those pics are small. What are you runnin 320x240 screen resolution? Post sumfin bigga, yo.
:>
Writersblock, thanks for the writeup. Looks saweet. But man those pics are small. What are you runnin 320x240 screen resolution? Post sumfin bigga, yo.
:>
| WShade | 01-24-2006 11:09 PM |
In the fender
�
�
[IMG]http://www.msprotege.com/members/WShade/Airhorn.jpg[/IMG]
| Drew888 | 01-25-2006 03:16 PM |
Look below
| Drew888 | 01-25-2006 03:42 PM |
I also didn't like the sound of the Supertones much and I almost bought them. My other choice was some old Porche air horns. A very very nice sound and fairly loud.
GM horns are very loud and I used to be jealous of that but something about a small Japanese car with a horn sounding like a Cadillac just doesn't seem right, I couldn't do it.
I have had mine for several months with no moisture getting to them and sound as good as the day I installed them.
Also, with my mounting location they are pointed forward and slightly down. Very loud!! and stealthy!!
Better Pic of Location
[IMG]http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c132/Drew_Jones/Horn%20Install/PICT0442-1.jpg[/IMG]
Found a spot
[IMG]http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c132/Drew_Jones/Horn%20Install/PICT0443-1.jpg[/IMG]
Bracket and hardware that came with the horn
[IMG]http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c132/Drew_Jones/Horn%20Install/PICT0449-1.jpg[/IMG]
Mounted it while it was lowered to gain access to the hardware
[IMG]http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c132/Drew_Jones/Horn%20Install/PICT0445-1.jpg[/IMG]
Then pushed it up with a wrench on the nut facing the engine. This tightened it the more you tucked it up there (I also used Locktite, and another nut on the end...I really don't want to have to go under there if I don't have to). I also had to bend the bracket out a bit to be able to put the liner back into place.
[IMG]http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c132/Drew_Jones/Horn%20Install/PICT0450-1.jpg[/IMG]
Ready to put everything back
[IMG]http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c132/Drew_Jones/Horn%20Install/PICT0447-1.jpg[/IMG]
GM horns are very loud and I used to be jealous of that but something about a small Japanese car with a horn sounding like a Cadillac just doesn't seem right, I couldn't do it.
I have had mine for several months with no moisture getting to them and sound as good as the day I installed them.
Also, with my mounting location they are pointed forward and slightly down. Very loud!! and stealthy!!
Better Pic of Location
[IMG]http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c132/Drew_Jones/Horn%20Install/PICT0442-1.jpg[/IMG]
Found a spot
[IMG]http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c132/Drew_Jones/Horn%20Install/PICT0443-1.jpg[/IMG]
Bracket and hardware that came with the horn
[IMG]http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c132/Drew_Jones/Horn%20Install/PICT0449-1.jpg[/IMG]
Mounted it while it was lowered to gain access to the hardware
[IMG]http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c132/Drew_Jones/Horn%20Install/PICT0445-1.jpg[/IMG]
Then pushed it up with a wrench on the nut facing the engine. This tightened it the more you tucked it up there (I also used Locktite, and another nut on the end...I really don't want to have to go under there if I don't have to). I also had to bend the bracket out a bit to be able to put the liner back into place.
[IMG]http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c132/Drew_Jones/Horn%20Install/PICT0450-1.jpg[/IMG]
Ready to put everything back
[IMG]http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c132/Drew_Jones/Horn%20Install/PICT0447-1.jpg[/IMG]
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