Frequently Asked Questions

Models 230, 500, 501, 630 & 730 will sound like real train horns. The model 220 dual train horn will be close – but it is a dual tone instead of a three tone so it will not be an authentic train horn sound like others.

Larger train horns tend to be louder and sound deeper than smaller air horns. Our compact horns produce decibel levels that range from 146 to 153 db, while the larger horns produce sound levels from 150 to 158 db. The horn tone produced will be close to the sound that a train horn makes but smaller horns will not have the impact that larger horns have. Because of the smaller, narrower trumpets – the sound of the smaller air horns (99, 102, 102-1, 130, 130-1,141-1, 141) will produce a higher pitch than our larger train horns (220, 230, 500, 501, 630, 730).

Choosing an air compressor is less about the air horn and more about how and how often the air is going to be used. Lower pressure systems (110-130 PSI work well with our compact horns). However, the larger horns sound best when used with a 150 PSI system. Our 230, 630 & 730 train horns all sound best with 150 PSI and at least 3 gallons of stored air. If you are looking for more capacity and/or would like to use the air for tire inflation, air tools, etc., the 6350 & 6450 air systems will perform great with any air horn. For air tool use, an inline pressure regulator is recommended.

There is virtually no difference in sound quality between ABS trumpets, spun steel, zinc or chrome-plated spun copper trumpets. Many customers prefer ABS trumpets because they are more resistant to impacts when installed underneath a vehicle. If you’re looking to make a fashion statement – you can always count on Kleinn’s show-winning mirror chrome finish.

It’s a good idea to wipe down air horns periodically and to keep chrome horns polished to keep them looking their best. If, over time, sound levels are diminished in volume or quality, you may want to remove the rear covers and clean out the motor and diaphragm. Replacement diaphragms are available from Kleinn Air Horns if they become fractured or damaged.

The Model 230 and 630 train horns that come in our HK7 & HK8 Systems are some of the loudest horns we carry. The output is about 153-154 db at 150 psi. However if you use the Model 6880 BlastMaster upgrade, (supplies 2 extra solenoids, fittings, and tubing so each trumpet will have its own solenoid) the output will go up to about 157 db. The only thing louder is our Model 730 Demon™ Train Horn that comes in our new HK9 system which can also be upgraded, but with our Model 6890 Ultra BlastMaster upgrade, it will produce 158.8 dB!

The only air horn models we carry that do not need a compressor/tank system are our direct drive models 6126 and 6127. They come with a direct drive compressor that will pump air directly into the air horn on demand, instead of pressurizing air in a tank. These air horns will be much louder than a stock horn but not nearly as loud as our air horns that are designed for use with a separate air compressor and tank.

Horns: Some vehicles will be able to fit certain air horns under the hood or behind the grill, but most customers will find it best to install the air horns underneath the vehicle on a frame rail. Regardless of where they are mounted, the air horns should be angled slightly downward to keep water from being trapped inside. Angled mounting allows water to run back out of the trumpets.

Air compressors: As long as a sealed compressor is being used, it can also be mounted underneath the vehicle on a frame rail. Sealed compressors can be mounted in any position except upside down. Always use the provided remote intake filter for installation and install it in a location that is clean and dry.

Air tank: The air tank should always be mounted in a location where you have an available bottom port to allow the tank to be drained. Likewise, there should always be a top or upper port available to provide space for the safety valve and pressure switch.

Choosing an air compressor is less about the air horn and more about how and how often the air is going to be used. Lower pressure systems (110-130 PSI work well with our compact horns). However, the larger horns sound best when used with a 150 PSI system. Our 230, 630 & 730 train horns all sound best with 150 PSI and at least 3 gallons of stored air. If you are looking for more capacity and/or would like to use the air for tire inflation, air tools, etc., the 6350 & 6450 air systems will perform great with any air horn. For air tool use, an inline pressure regulator is recommended.

The only air horn models we carry that do not need a compressor/tank system are our direct drive models 6126 and 6127. They come with a direct drive compressor that will pump air directly into the air horn on demand, instead of pressurizing air in a tank. These air horns will be much louder than a stock horn but not nearly as loud as our air horns that are designed for use with a separate air compressor and tank.

To keep the air compressor running in peak performance, you should never operate it without the engine also running. Operating without the engine running will force the air compressor to operate on less than 12 volts. Published performance data is determined at a charging voltage of 13.8 volts.

Yes! All Kleinn air compressors come with a One Year Manufacturer’s Defect Warranty that applies to defects in materials or workmanship. The warranty does not cover wear, nor does it cover damage caused by operating the unit in conditions that may cause damage.