I just installed my K3 setup and am having some issues. First off I have a Nathan K3 with custom manifold built buy somebody else who previously had the horns. Im running the HB 540 on board air kit with 1/2 line. My 1st problem is that my compressor is running really hot. I have it mounted in a toolbox in the bed of my truck. It seems extra hot in there but Im not sure if that is normal or not. I do have some air leaks I need to fix so it did run longer than normal to get to 150psi. I assume that could also be the problem. 2nd problem is the horns are NOT loud at all. I hit them at 150psi and they sounded nothing like a K3 should sound. Like I said…I know I have some air leaks but that shouldnt cause it to sound that bad should it? My old HB4H horns sounded louder. What could be causing this?
Make sure your solenoid valve is pointed the right direction.
There should be an arrow on the casting for flow direction.
Loctite 545 is the best for leaks.
The compressors do run hot. Some other guys have them in tool boxes too. Maybe they’ll chime in.
ok I figured they ran hot…this one just seemed extra hot. Im sure its breaking in too…its the 1st time its ever ran. So it has that new breaking in burn smell lol. Im working on fixing the leaks. But why would the horn not be that loud? Ill run out and check the valve again
The compressor should have some kind of warning label like “Caution, Hot Surfaces during and after operation - Do Not Touch”.
Yes that compressor should be extremely hot. I got a 480C and it gets pretty warm within seconds of being on. It should almost be too hot to touch with fingertips and should almost burn your forearm if it rests on it. I dont think I ever had the burning smell tho…
The low horn sound im thinkin maybe small diameter holes for adapters/fittings. Possibly the custom manifold is not flowing enough air because of small diameter holes?
Have you inspected your check valve?
If your compressor is running “Hot” and longer than normal, you may have a damaged check valve. This piece is located on the steel braided hose, usually at the end connected to the air tank. You can tell by checking the area around the compressors inlet valve (the port that sucks the air in). If it is blowing air out, and only has a little suction, your check valve is damaged.
Mine just faulted as well (lame!). I noticed the system wasn’t building pressure, there were no major leaks and the airflow was weakened. Contacted HB for the original receipt, sent it to Viair- should be receiving a new hose soon (nice- but would be better if I had it already and could be blasting my K3s at the tourists/golfers that have flooded my town).
If your compressor is running continuously, I would advise you disable it so that you don’t burn up your compressor.
Have you checked your K3 for a restrictor plate?
I am unaware of this restrictor plate you speak of. I’m installing a high flow 1/2 inch SMC valve tomorrow so well see if rhat helps
The restrictor is placed in the manifold on OTR airchimes. And it is just a plug that has a 1/4in hole and is screwd into the half in port on the manifold. Hope that helps and there is also a photo of the restrictor on the site that was just recently posted.
Well got it figured out. My problem was the AMSCO valve. It must have been junk. I got a SMC highflow 1/2 valve and BAM…instantly cured. Sounds awesome! Thanks for the help guys!