Wolo Bad Boy Horn: Holy CRAP this thing is loud!

[bwringer]

A literal blast from the past!

Very strange to see one of my old posts from so long ago resurrected!

An update:
- I installed one of these on my GS850G not too long after the above. It's still working fine.
- I've installed two or three more on other people's bikes.
- My V-Strom came with one -- there's a way to mount them under the fairing with a grounding clamp in just the right position.

I have learned that if your Wolo/Stebel seems to be losing it's head-rattling power, you can fix it thusly:

1) Remove the plastic horn assembly from the compressor/motor assembly. It's a simple clip arrangement, but be careful with the plastic.

2) Put a few drops of air compressor oil into the "intake". Put a rag over the outlet and operate the compressor. Marvel at the black gunk that comes out. Repeat the oil and rag routine several times until the oil comes out clean-ish.

Also, the relay that comes in the package isn't exactly the greatest. If your horn is getting weak or intermittent, try replacing the relay. Good sealed 40 amp relays are only about $5 at Advance Auto or your favorite automotive shoppe.

[posplayr]

Very strange to see one of my old posts from so long ago resurrected!

An update:
- I installed one of these on my GS850G not too long after the above. It's still working fine.
- I've installed two or three more on other people's bikes.
- My V-Strom came with one -- there's a way to mount them under the fairing with a grounding clamp in just the right position.

I have learned that if your Wolo/Stebel seems to be losing it's head-rattling power, you can fix it thusly:

1) Remove the plastic horn assembly from the compressor/motor assembly. It's a simple clip arrangement, but be careful with the plastic.

2) Put a few drops of air compressor oil into the "intake". Put a rag over the outlet and operate the compressor. Marvel at the black gunk that comes out. Repeat the oil and rag routine several times until the oil comes out clean-ish.

Also, the relay that comes in the package isn't exactly the greatest. If your horn is getting weak or intermittent, try replacing the relay. Good sealed 40 amp relays are only about $5 at Advance Auto or your favorite automotive shoppe.

Thanks, I'll try to remember where you left these instructions once I need them.

[Greg B]

You can separate the horn from the compressor and run a hose between the two.
Gives more mounting options in tight spaces.
I have the compressor mounted under the seat, and the horn inside the fairing with the bell sticking out just below the fairing on my 1150.

[GSJim]

I want two horns. One for tooting at the lady's. One for GET THE HECK OUT OF MY WAY A-HOLE!

How long does it take for the Wolo to spin up and make serious noise? Someone on another forum (can't remember who or where) had an air horn in parallel with a regular horn. A short jab of the horn button gives a toot for little old ladies and holding the button unleashes the 138dB "You're about to get run over by a truck" blast.

Jim

[posplayr]

How long does it take for the Wolo to spin up and make serious noise? Someone on another forum (can't remember who or where) had an air horn in parallel with a regular horn. A short jab of the horn button gives a toot for little old ladies and holding the button unleashes the 138dB "You're about to get run over by a truck" blast.

Jim

That would make sense, I will have to test it. But in addition if you separate the compressor from the horn it also must delay the horn. If you use an accumulator surely much more. Not sure I want to seep rate mine as it seems to fit well where it is.

[spyug]

Another option for us "frugal" types are the Fiamm horns which are under $20 at our Princess Auto Stores (like the US Harbour Freight) and come in a Freeway Blaster model of high or low tone. Mounting one of each gives best results but one alone will do the job. Rated at 130dB. They are also more compact than the Stebel allowing for more mounting options.

A good buy for the money IMHO.

[bwringer]

How long does it take for the Wolo to spin up and make serious noise? Someone on another forum (can't remember who or where) had an air horn in parallel with a regular horn. A short jab of the horn button gives a toot for little old ladies and holding the button unleashes the 138dB "You're about to get run over by a truck" blast.

Jim

There's no delay at all if the battery, wiring, relay and the horn itself are healthy (see my cleaning and lubrication instructions above). But a tiny jab at the button gives you a short duration toot that sounds a bit friendlier -- still loud as your average bull mastodon, but it doesn't last long enough to do much damage. Also, bear in mind that you shouldn't tootle anyone closer than about twenty feet if you wish to remain on good terms.

[tatu]

Also, bear in mind that you shouldn't tootle anyone closer than about twenty feet if you wish to remain on good terms.

I'm so looking forward to mine when it arrives.