Need help with horn problem

[slugbug]

The horn in my '99 Saturn SC1 failed and replacement horns are impossible to find. The horns on these cars had the relay built in so a standard horn will not work. My only option is to modify a standard horn by wiring in some type of relay. Though I'm not sure which relay I would need, where to put it, or how to wire it.

Anyone have any ideas?

[Google]

[[TN] Nathan]

Have you checked the junk yards at all? There has to be one available to rip the horn out of it.
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[mojo1340]

Unless you use your horn a LOT, I would be surprised if the horn/relay actually failed. Have you checked things like the fuse and ground connections? A multimeter can determine if the switch (horn button) is actually grounding the horn to let it do it's job.

If it is indeed the horn and relay, almost any seperate horn and horn relay combination will work, but will require a bit of extra wiring. You'll need to fuse the high-current wire to the relay at a minimum.

Here's a pretty good article that gives the basics of what needs to happen:
http://www.secondchancegarage.com/public/133.cfm

Good luck!

[slugbug]

[slugbug]

[oh_fubar]

Slug I would expect that GM dealer would have that same part listed for another model.
I found starter bolts for a Chevy at a Buick dealer a while back

[slugbug]

[[TN] Nathan]

Anywhere really as long as it is wired up properly.
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[mojo1340]

The purpose of the relay is to avoid running high-current (read large diameter) wire to the horn switch in your steering wheel. Consequently, there should be big wire coming into the relay from the +12V and to the horn, with the low current signal coming from the horn switch (likely just completing a ground when the switch is activated.) Ideally, you'd want the large wire running from the relay to the horn to be as short as possible, but mounting options will dictate where it should be placed. Most relays are relatively rugged and should be able to live anywhere in the engine compartment. Don't forgrt to fuse the high current wire between the +12V source and the relay (just in case!)

[oh_fubar]

hey Slug will this work

http://www.autopartswarehouse.com/search/?searchType=refined&Nr=&N=0&Ntt=horn

[slugbug]

I don't think your link worked correctly. I see a whole list of parts and the first item shown is a side mirror.

[oh_fubar]

dam if it doesn't work for me lol ok will send the page by email

[slugbug]

[meobius]

I would mount the relay as close to the horn as possible. Also I would place the relay in a small Tupperware container (check about heat conditions so it doesn't melt) drill holes to pass the wires and use silicone to seal it all up. Should weather proof it and allow it to last longer.

[[TN] Nathan]

Honestly, I wouldn't put in any container seeing it will promote condesation. I would leave it out in a dry part of the engine bay with no direct water exposure.

Relays are pretty tough.
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[slugbug]

I guess I'll stick it near the horn with a dab of silicone. Planning to get a big car horn. Why the heck do small cars always have these high pitched squeaky horns anyway

[slugbug]

Picked up a universal FIAMM horn, 30 amp relay, roll of 16g wire, and some crimp on connectors. I have a horn again

Next on the agenda is a rear brake job: new drums, shoes, and brake spring kit.