Horn replacement on 330 Express

[Tom Kataras]

Good morning. I recently (2 weeks ago) took delivery of a 2003 Grady White 330 Express. I am located in Jupiter, Fl. The horn barely emits any sound so I was planning on replacing it with an identical Ongaro horn from Defender. Is there any way to access the wires inside the boat? What panel to take off?
Thanks in advance. I appreciate all the info this group provides.

Tom Kataras
Currently "The Negotiator "
Jupiter Cove Marina

 

[loubeer]

I changed mine about a year ago. I couldn't see any access from below. I worked from the top and tried to tuck the wiring in as much as possible. More wiring showing than I'd like, but working OK and I'm probably, the only one who sees the extra 1/2 inch of wire

 

[Fishtales]

I just stay with the existing style. Not the best but a direct replacement. It is sold under a couple of brands.

 

[kirk a]

Replaced mine with a like one and never found any way to access wires except from the outside. Turned out there was enough extra scope to do the job, but not so much it could not be tucked back away.

 

[Tom Kataras]

Great group. Thanks for speedy replies and information. I didn't want to,start taking down panels only to find out what you guys already know. I ordered the identical horn for the replacement. Thanks again. I look forward to being able to contribute to the forums dialog.

 

[SkunkBoat]

Great group. Thanks for speedy replies and information. I didn't want to,start taking down panels only to find out what you guys already know. I ordered the identical horn for the replacement. Thanks again. I look forward to being able to contribute to the forums dialog.

You might want to try "fixing" it with a hammer or a wrench. They get rust on their contact. A well placed smack can get them honking loud again.
If you replace them every time they sound like a sick goose you will replace them often.
There are NO good electric boat horns. They all suck. Some just cost more. They were invented in 1910 to be used on LAND and have not been improved since.

 

[HMBJack]

Yes indeed. Those horns are legendary for not working. Not worth tearing the boat apart to replace it.
You could spend $ and install a nice and very loud air horn up on your hardtop. 12V power is in your upper cabinet.
I kept it simple: I switched to a hand held pneumatic boat horn. I hardly ever use it and it is USCG acceptable.