HornBlasters Truck Train Horn Line-up

HornBlasters is the supreme train horn brand. Their on-line presence is extensive and user feedback is overwhelming favorable. We examine the current product line-up.
HornBlasters Truck Train Horn Line-up
Truck owners who enjoy customizing their trucks are frequently left with an OEM wimpy sounding horn. Perhaps that is why train horn kits have become so popular. Once installed, a honk of he horn gives a mighty air blast that sounds very close to an authentic diesel locomotive air horn. While these loud devices can be abused, they can a welcome safety device to quickly warn of an approaching emergency situation.

Besides the horn, these train horn kits consist of an air tank and air compressor that fills and re-fills the tank as the air horn is used. Although these kits contains all parts needed, it is not a quick install. The buyer must allot several hours to the task for even a basic kit.

Ii is the leading supplier of train horn kits and related parts. Their reputation is such that there are references all over the internet commenting on the brand and users' experiences. Here's a run down on their offerings current at the time of this writing.

The black ABS S-4 Shocker four bell horn array is the signature air horn in the premium line-up. In fact, leaving off the "value priced" kits and the high end Nathan train systems, the Shocker is the only horn offered. These slim black horns are typically arranged in a horizontal display one next to each other in descending lengths. The material is ABS plastic. This tough material enables these horns to withstand very tough environments like high heat, sand, frigid cold and dampness. The working part, the diaphragm, is made of stainless steel. The lengths are 12.75", 14.75", 16.25", and 19.5" with a 5" flare. The horns can be installed in any configuration and can be separated if desired.

The Shocker series varies mainly by tank size, compressor series and maximum working psi (air pressure). It uses the highly reliable Viair compressor (aka "pump") to power all their systems. This is not an inconsequential consideration. Compressors work hard to keep the tank at a prescribed fill level. Lesser quality tanks may fail early and bring down the system causing delays, frustration and disappointment.

It has recently configured new systems that cost less but still maintain the quality the company is known for. The standard series is built around Viair pump/tank combos. Here the compressor is bolted right to the top of the tank rather than being separate from the tank. This somewhat shortens install time because the wiring and air coupling between these two components. These systems are ideal where you have room for the rather tall configuration of the combo, such as a car truck or truck tool box. The standard series Shocker kits all feature the same four bell shock horns that anchor the premium line. All feature a 2 gallon tank which is large enough for many users. You can choose a system with working air pressures from 120 PSI to 200 PSI.

It has expanded two value lines. The DX Shocker series is similar to the standard line but with two-bell Shocker horns rather than four. The Bandit series value line contains compact chrome plated horns driven by the Viair combo units. Both these series are aimed at the buyer who desires a less expensive kit that will fit in smaller vehicles.

There is an old adage that says, "The thrill of a good price fades far sooner than the pain of a poor product." That is all the more reason to consider a HornBlasters kit for your next vehicle upgrade.
HornBlasters Train Horn Kits
TrainHorn.org carries HornBlasters train horn kits
   By Eugene Brenner
Published: 4/29/2009
 
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