At 04:03 PM 3/7/2000 -0800, you wrote:
>     At risk of being lynched by this mailing list, I was
>trying to replace my VW-horn with a louder one.
>"".   The new horn is setup the same way with a 12v power and
>an outlet back to the steering wheel to close the circuit. BUT,
>when you hook up the new horn just like the old one (same wires),
>it does NOT work. But if the wire that should go to the steering
>  to the van itself instead, then the horn works with the accessorie turned
>on(but can't turn off).   The old horn worked fine, the connections are
>good, the steering wheel contacts
>are good, and the new horn is in good condition (working)

It's a non-relayed direct switch to ground, but the stock setup just can't
carry the amp requirements of the new horn (it's amazing you didn't weld
the contacts in the steering wheel!).  Use the existing circuit to trigger
a relay that is fed  from the battery (fused at the *source* of the 12V).
I don't do it often, but the 4 horns I've got surrounding the spare tire
will make even big-rigs jump back into their lane when they don't see me.

Austin