Help needed building simple horn test circuit

[Mark42]

In another post about control box test horns I learned that my control box does not do an automatic test beep of the horn. I can add a micro momentary switch to manually test, but thought that it would be cool to add a component or two to the control box to sound the horn when the ignition is turned on. <br /><br />I went to Radioshack.com to find some timer chips, but not having any experience with these type of components, I am at a loss as to how to use them properly.<br /><br />What is needed is a circuit that will can trigger a relay for 1 or 2 seconds when energized. When powered off, it will reset and trigger the relay for 1 or 2 seconds again the next time it is energized.<br /><br />I already have some micro relays that will handle the current/voltage when grounding the horn. My problem is how to trigger the relay for 1 or 2 seconds then stop while the ignition is still on.<br /><br />Any suggestions as to what components I need and how they interact? <br /><br />Thanks!<br /><br />Mark.

 

[Dhadley]

Re: Help needed building simple horn test circuit

The new style horn has it all built in. Plug-N-Play.

 

[Mark42]

Re: Help needed building simple horn test circuit

Dhadley,<br /><br />Yeah, but this is more fun. I get to solder some stuff to a board, and it should cost less than a new horn.

 

[gspig]

Re: Help needed building simple horn test circuit

If you are electronically inclined, do a web search for "555 timer circuits". You need to build a momentary on circuit controlled by a 555 timer ic. Or you could goto mcmaster.com and search for timer relays.

 

[Mark42]

Re: Help needed building simple horn test circuit

gspig,<br /><br />Found this timer kit that should do:<br /><br />Timer Kit <br /><br />But I'll keep looking for something simpler.<br /><br />Thanks for pointing me in the right direction with the 555 timer. Maybe I can get my 14yr old son interested in it too.<br /><br />Mark.

 

[gspig]

Re: Help needed building simple horn test circuit

Unless you can design a circuit, that kit looks pretty good. Needs 12vdc input, which you have, and should be able to directly control the horn. There should be 1 capacitor and 1 resistor (probably a potentiometer) that control the amount of time on the timer. If you change those, you can get a shorter timer duration.

 

[18rabbit]

Re: Help needed building simple horn test circuit

Originally posted by Mark42:<br /> Dhadley,<br /><br />...I get to solder some stuff to a board, and it should cost less than a new horn.

No SOLDER!!! Only double crimps!!!

 

[lawyertob]

Re: Help needed building simple horn test circuit

Originally posted by 18rabbit:<br />

Originally posted by Mark42:<br /> Dhadley,<br /><br />...I get to solder some stuff to a board, and it should cost less than a new horn.

No SOLDER!!! Only double crimps!!!

Mark,<br /><br />I was going to make up a momentary circuit myself, but now I have circuit envy, and will probably put a timer on my own.<br /><br />I don't suppose I can get a part number for these new style horns, so I can see if it is worth the cost to pass up all the fun of making my own timer circuit? The part number on my current horn is 279336 and the whole remote control is a number 386867.<br /><br />Oh yeah, Mark, don't forget that poly doesn't stick to electricity as well as epoxy does. <br /><br />$0.01 for your thoughts,<br />Joe

 

[OBJ]

Re: Help needed building simple horn test circuit

Mark....if you do build such a circuit, might consider a parallel connection with the horn circuit, not series. Anything happens to the home built in a series connection and the your engine protection goes down the pooper.<br /><br />Just a pennies worth....

 

[Mark42]

Re: Help needed building simple horn test circuit

Joe,<br /><br />I remember reading a post where the horn cost aroung $35. But not sure what unit that was for. And like OBJ says, if I build the unit, it will be in parallel. <br /><br />I realized last night that the timer doesn't have to fit inside the control box, it can go under the gunnel, or under the motor hood. Anywhere the ignition and horn wires are found. If I mount it on the motor, then it is testing the ground wire going to the horn as well (wonder what heat temps it can take?). <br /><br />I put the timer kit on my Christmas list. Will see what happens.<br /><br />Oh, Joe, thanks for the reminder, I will use epoxy to make all connections.