In the past century train horns have evolved from being a simple horn, to elaborate horns with many nozzles. They serve as extremely loud devices to warn oncoming traffic and animals of the trains presence. Train horns can also serve as a signal transmitter, when conductors and employees need to pass signals between each other. A train horn consists of several pieces, but the main components are the nozzle and the diaphragm.

Most people think that train horns are only for use on trains, as a warning signal. However there is a fairly large group of people who collect train horns. Their popularity is growing, due to the rarity of some older pieces. Its important for collectors to have the best train horns. People also use them on their own personal vehicles, such as trucks, boats, sport utility vehicles, and RV’s. They are a fun, and novelty collectible item.

Train horn kits can be easily purchased anywhere on the web, or through a dealer. Don’t expect to get one with a kids allowance though, these special horns can cost anywhere between $200-$1000+.

Setting up a train horn is a complicated process, and also requires a bit of precision. Importance is placed upon choosing the correct air compressor to generate the sound, and the right placement. A mistake in any of these categories can be lethal, and is highly dangerous. It is advisable to have an air compressor of 20 gallons or higher. This allows for a surplus, and keeps you from running back and forth to a gas station to fill it up.

When repairing your train horn keep the size, manufacturer, and age in mind. Older train horns that are rare, need to be cared for in a delicate manner. One mistake can ruin their value significantly. Professionals that restore train horns will fix yours up for a small fee. Train horns of all types are subject to abnormalities at some point in time. The two major components of a train horn are hollow, so there is plenty of open space for all sorts of things to collect. Sometimes the most unexpected things can appear inside, and cause sound problems. A danger is also posed here, because an animal could have made its home inside.

Closing Comments

All in all, train horns are a unique collectible item, and a quite functional one at that. In over 50 years they still have not gone out of style, and train conductors will probably continue to use them for some time.