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Old 09-02-2020, 03:36 PM   #1
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Default Checking the Horn Circcuit

I'm trying to test the main wiring harness which I just installed before completing the installation of headlights, tail lights, horn, etc. Everything makes sense to me except the wiring to the horn. Using a test light, one of the two wires is "hot" all the time, one is not. Pushing the horn button makes no difference in either wire. I was expecting to see a difference when the button was pushed. I have a different light switch rod but don't want to go thru the hassle of changing rods and I'd like to know if things are okay before proceeding. Are things okay or do I have a problem?
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Old 09-02-2020, 05:39 PM   #2
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Default Re: Checking the Horn Circcuit

The solid yellow wire that goes into the horn is not switched by the horn button at the top of the light switch rod. It is "hot" all the time.

The wire that has a tracer that connects to the horn goes up to the horn button, and the horn button provides the GROUND for the horn. Then it turns the motor and makes the sound.

Find a wiring diagram and study it. You are wise to check things out in advance. I use a ohmmeter without connecting the battery. You have too many "amps" available inside that battery to use it for testing (unless you have added a fuse).

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Old 09-02-2020, 05:48 PM   #3
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Default Re: Checking the Horn Circcuit

Good luck Jim you have my vote!
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Old 09-02-2020, 06:07 PM   #4
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Default Re: Checking the Horn Circcuit

Thanks Jim. That makes sense to me and thankfully I think I'm okay to proceed. Seems there's no easy way to test with a test light. I'll try an ohm meter.
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Old 09-03-2020, 10:12 AM   #5
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Default Re: Checking the Horn Circcuit

Quote:
Seems there's no easy way to test with a test light.
W/a test light, connect one end to the ungrounded side of the battery and the other end to the wire coming from the horn button. Simple.
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Old 09-03-2020, 11:14 AM   #6
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Default Re: Checking the Horn Circcuit

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Originally Posted by katy View Post
W/a test light, connect one end to the ungrounded side of the battery and the other end to the wire coming from the horn button. Simple.

Yep.
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Old 09-03-2020, 01:44 PM   #7
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Default Re: Checking the Horn Circcuit

Thanks fellows. I thought of that myself after the brain fog left. Did that yesterday and I'm in good shape. Ready to finish the job. Thanks to all!
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