Overview
The LAUNCH CNC-603A is a professional-grade ultrasonic fuel injector cleaning and testing machine used by automotive repair shops. The complete unit retails for $1,295-2,189 USD from authorized dealers.
This dossier covers replacement control boards sold on AliExpress for significantly less than official LAUNCH parts pricing. These boards claim compatibility with the CNC-603A but come with substantial unknowns.
The CNC-603A Machine
For context, the LAUNCH CNC-603A is an advanced fuel injector service tool that combines:
- Ultrasonic cleaning - removes deposits from injector internals
- Flow testing - measures injector output volume
- Spray pattern testing - visual inspection of spray uniformity
- Leak testing - detects faulty injector seals
- Automated test cycles - standardized testing procedures
Machine Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Input Power | 230W |
| Cleaning Power | 100W |
| RPM Range | 10-9990 rpm |
| Pulse Width | 0.5-25 ms |
| Fuel Capacity | 2500 mL |
| Cylinders | Up to 6 |
| Voltage | 110V or 220V |
The machine supports gasoline port injectors. GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection) injectors require different equipment due to higher operating pressures.
The Replacement Board
Unverified Product
This product has NOT been personally tested. All analysis is based on listing information, product photos, and knowledge of similar replacement parts. Actual quality and compatibility are unknown.
What You're Getting
Based on the AliExpress listing, this appears to be:
- Main control PCB for CNC-603A
- Handles power supply regulation
- Controls pump, ultrasonic generator, and test functions
- Interfaces with display panel and user controls
What's Unknown
Critical unknowns that affect purchase decision:
-
Authenticity: Is this a genuine LAUNCH OEM part, a factory-quality clone, or a low-quality knockoff?
-
Revision Compatibility: The CNC-603A has been manufactured for years with multiple hardware revisions. Boards may not be interchangeable between revisions.
-
Failure Mode: Why are these boards available separately? Are they pulls from failed/returned units, factory rejects, or purpose-manufactured replacements?
-
Quality Control: What testing (if any) has been performed? Unknown failure rate.
When This Makes Sense
Potentially Viable Scenario
Your CNC-603A's control board has failed. LAUNCH or authorized service:
- Quotes $500+ for repair
- Has multi-week turnaround
- Machine is critical for your shop income
In this case, a $50-150 gamble on an AliExpress board might be worth attempting, with full acceptance that it may not work.
Not Recommended Scenarios
- Preventive replacement - Don't replace a working board
- First repair attempt - Try troubleshooting original board first
- Critical reliability needs - If machine downtime is unacceptable
- No electronics experience - Board replacement requires technical skill
Installation Considerations
Safety First
The CNC-603A works with flammable fuel under pressure. Improper repairs can cause fires, fuel leaks, or injury. If you're not comfortable with automotive electrical repair, do not attempt this.
Before Ordering
-
Document your original board thoroughly
- Photograph from all angles
- Note all connector positions and types
- Record any revision/version numbers printed on PCB
- Measure board dimensions
-
Verify voltage compatibility
- 110V and 220V versions exist
- Wrong voltage = immediate destruction
- Check your machine's rating label
-
Contact seller with specifics
- Send photos of your current board
- Ask about compatibility with your revision
- Request additional board photos
Testing Protocol
If you receive and install the board:
- Visual inspection - Check for damage, cold solder joints, missing components
- Continuity testing - Verify no shorts before powering
- Bench test first - Power up without fuel, verify display and controls function
- Dry run - Test pump and ultrasonic with water only
- Monitored fuel test - First test with fuel, remain present, fire extinguisher ready
Alternatives
Official LAUNCH Support
Contact LAUNCH Tech USA (1-855-275-5141) or your regional distributor for:
- Official replacement parts pricing
- Authorized repair service
- Warranty status check
Official parts cost more but include compatibility guarantee and support.
Third-Party Repair Services
Some electronics repair shops specialize in automotive equipment. They may be able to:
- Diagnose and repair your original board
- Source compatible components
- Provide warranty on their work
Replacement Machine
If repair costs approach 50%+ of new machine price, consider:
- LAUNCH CNC-603A (new): $1,295-2,189 USD
- LAUNCH CNC-602A (older model): May be available used
- Other brands: Autool, CNBJ, generic options exist at lower price points
Verdict
This is a calculated gamble, not a recommended purchase. The potential savings are significant—possibly $300-500+ compared to official repair. But you're accepting:
- Unknown compatibility
- Unknown quality
- Zero warranty
- Potential total loss of money spent
- Safety risks if board malfunctions
Only consider if:
- Official repair is unavailable or cost-prohibitive
- You have electronics troubleshooting experience
- You accept total loss as possible outcome
- Your machine is already non-functional (nothing to lose)
Do not purchase if:
- Your machine currently works
- You need guaranteed reliability
- You're not comfortable with electrical repair
- You can't verify voltage compatibility