Simple 'Electronic' Horn Relay Replacement?

Classic Toy Trains Forum
1

Has anybody put together a relatively simple/inexpensive horn relay replacement electronic circuit? Maybe something that would be smaller than an original PW relay device and simple that could be soldered together out of common electronic components.

Something that would (A) respond to a DC signal from the transformer and (B) close a circuit to allow 1.5V to the horn from a battery or other power source…

thanks

2

pgtr,

If you are seeking to “play around with electronics” I can’t help you. Perhaps Bob Nelson (lionelsoni) can.

On the other hand, if you are simply trying to replace a horn relay with a reliable electronic unit that you substitute for the original postwar parts, you might try “Superhorn” by Depotronics. (Contrary to some sources on the internet, Depotronics is still very much in business, although they “don’t advertise as much” as they once did.

Even if you are not interested in these replacement electronic relays (Superhorn and Superwhistle) other members might be. I personally have used a Superwhistle and it has worked perfectly for years. Note: you can read the installations instructions online, and decide whether it looks like it would meet your needs. It works a little differently from what you specified in Superhorn replaces the battery as well as the relay itself.

http://www.depotronics.com/products/shsw/index.htm

3

Interesting - thanks for sharing - was not aware of this solution. That’s basically what I’m talking about. But I was interested if anybody had built a simple version out of electronic components. Still it’s a great datapoint to keep in mind.

I think a basic PW electromechanical relay itself is probably not all that much more. The price is also the same as a complete replacement electronic horn kit from weaver or williams including speaker etc.

thanks again

4

williams trains offer a relay also for $19.99 plus shipping. it also has bell. they also do a whistle and bell same price I have both and like them fine. http://www.williamstrains.com/

5

Thanks - didn’t know about that one either - Williams never ceases to impress me.

Actually I have their trublast kit myself - for about $30 comes w/ a small board and a speaker. It works fine by itself and includes both a diesel horn and a bell. My only complaint is that it plays a WAV fire (or equiv) which means it’s going to play it’s series of blasts and I don’t have any control over the # of blasts or duration(s). But other than that it works fine.

thanks