Brass Train Whistle I Have, Question About It

I would think it depends on what metal this "whistle" is constructed of. Until you figure just how to contact the manufacturer, I sure wouldn't make any decisions on placement outdoors, especially mounted vertically so that it collect rain/snow in the tubes. Just my opinion, but you should make every effort to contact the manufacturer, even if by phone.

It is made of solid brass just like orginal whistles so it is fine to mount it outside. Based on the design I would mount it sideways so water does not collect in the bowl.

Here's audio I took of the whistle, so you know what it sounds like.

of course when you mount it outside you'll lose the great reverb effect you get inside your building.

why not make a sloped shed type roof to mount over it, to keep rain and snow off it?

also, if it is in a sunny location outside, any clear coat on the metal will deteriorate from UV exposure.

You might try calling or snail mailing. :-)

Dan

yeah, that Krylon can notes UV resistant, not UV proof. wonder just how much longer it will last?

environmental conditions exact severe stresses on acrylic coatings. unless the coefficient of expansion of the brass (or other metal), closely matches the coefficient of elasticity of the coating, the coating will craze or split, allowing moisture into it, then lifting, blushing or peeling.

it is an even more critical factor if the metal is exposed to the sun, with wider swings in expansion and contraction.

better to let the metal weather naturally,than having to deal with a maintenance cycle of failed coating.

It sounds great, but to my ear the whistle sounds purer or more musical than most steam whistles, which have a "hoarse" quality.  This could be due to it's being operated on air rather than steam, or possibly the quality of the metal?  Are the tubes cast or sheet metal?  Does the manufacturer say it can be operated with steam?

I have seen steam factory whistles, obviously designed for outdoor use, with a small roof over them.  Perhaps to direct the sound rather than protect them from the weather?

My thoughts also, then I noted that the end of the box says 30 to 120psi AIR PRESSURE. No wonder it sounds so "musical" and weak.

Evan thou built for a NKP Berkshire I put this in my J1e hudson and sounds great.

If you're looking for a good clear metal coating, I recommend Everbrite.

http://www.everbritecoatings.com/index.html