Horn doesn't work

[aeo]

83 d110, 300tdi

Lights work, turn signals work, just not horn. That has me assuming it is not the switch. How do I check power at the actual horn- when I hook a multimeter up too the purple and black wires there I don't have power. Then I was wondering if that is normal- doesn't matter if ignition is on (accessory) or off, no power. How should I be testing power to the horn and I guess at the switch. Super novice with electrical so keep that in mind. Like kindergarten level of understanding.

Thanks,
Alex

 

[expanse]

At the switch pigtail/connector, under the column clamshell, wiggle the formed connector apart enough to get a probe on the purple/black? horn feed line. press button and see if you get voltage. that'll give you and idea if it's the issue is up or down stream of the switch, or possibly the switch itself. if it gets voltage, see if you can get a continuity between the formed connector and spade connector for the horn. Also don't rule out a trashed spade connector at the horn end.

 

[SaintPanzer]

Let's do easy first: I had a similar problem. Step one was take the connectors off the horn. Then, hit the connectors will electrical cleaner spray, and clean the contacts on the horn (emory paper, scotchbrite pad, eraser, something similar). Reconnect. Test.

Failing that, find a helper. You're right that you can check at the horn for power at the wires, but it's an open circuit unless someone is hitting the switch. So connect the multimeter to the connectors, and have helper press the horn. You should see voltage there.

I agree that it's better to start at the switch to find a short (power to the switch, power after the switch), but the horn is far easier to reach. Clean the contacts, test. If that fails, send power directly to the horn. If that works, you know the horns are good. Rule out trashed spade connector. If everything is working at that end, then go to the switch.