Nathan/Airchime P3

Characteristics

Tuning

A major triad (C#, E, A), with P-series bells #1, #2, #4

Sound

The P-series horns are known for their brassy sound and will often make a small "chiff" sound just as they are blown. While "new-cast" P5's are known for erratic tuning, the P3 is less susceptible to producing discords since it only has three bells.

Samples

• LLPX GP38-2 #2256 (2001-03) - P12R4
• SLR GP40 #3000 (2005-03-11) - P12R3 (mismatched bells)

Appearance

The P3 shares the same characteristics as the P5, with slender bells that follow an exponential curve similar to the K-series. P-series bells are narrower than those of the K series. Three-chime P-series horns use the same manifold as the P5, but with two of the openings blocked off. The bells on either side of the "V" of the manifold can appear either under or over the manifold. Power chambers are equal sizes on all the bells.

Classification and Use

Classification

An all-bells-forward version of the P3 is a P124. The P3 had no major variations, so other classification is limited to having reversed bells (as in P14R2 for a P3 with the #2 bell reversed).

History

The three-chime P-series horn was introduced in the 1950's and was derived from the five-chime version. As with the P5, the P3 produced the same chord as the three-chime M-series. New castings were made for the bells in the late 1970's which didn't respect the original specifications, causing tuning problems with the P5 in particular and, to a lesser extent, the P3.

Locations

The P3 is found on older locomotives of Illinois Central and Southern Pacific, as well as on one more recent order of Union Pacific SD70M's. As with the P5, few are now purchased, with railroads favouring the K-series horns.