X-431 Heavy Duty Truck Add-On Module
The Launch X-431 Heavy Duty Truck Add-On Module turns the company's Pad II into a full-function heavy duty truck scan tool. The module provides access to Class 4 through Class 8 vehicles, and communicates via Bluetooth, or can be hardwired to the vehicle. Users can download the HD Truck app to work on 12V or 24V systems. The module offers extensive model coverage and special functions, including engine, transmission, ABS and auxiliary from manufacturers such as Wabco, Bendix and Allison. The module works on CAT, Cummins, Detroit, Freightliner, Fuso, Hino, International, Isuzu, Kenworth, Peterbilt, Sterling and Volvo.
The Review
Barry Hoyland, owner of Vehicle Service Solutions of California, says the Launch Tech USA X431 HD Heavy Duty Scan Tool saved him time and money. With the single tool, Hoyland was able to navigate component modules and multiple systems on various vehicles, from passenger cars to Class 8 trucks.
In his shop, Hoyland services all types of vehicle, but for this review he used the X431 Heavy Duty Scan Tool to perform module scans on Freightliner, Kenworth and a Peterbilt; DPF status and manual regen on a Freightliner, and to diagnose low power issues on a Freightliner with a Detroit engine and a Peterbilt with a Cummins engine.
“One feature I found interesting was this tool was able to communicate with a Dodge light duty truck with a Cummins engine without a communication conflict. My experience has shown difficulties in many scan tools communicating properly,” says Hoyland. He notes, “I only used this on one Dodge / Cummins application, so this may not be a consistent trait.”
To begin the review, Hoyland had to unpack the adapters, download the software and register the tool onto either a new or existing Launch Tech tablet. The tool came in a blow-molded case, along with all of the cables necessary to connect to most HD truck and trailer applications. Hoyland reports the add-on was very easy to use, with an impressively quick and intuitive navigation from screen to screen.
“The tool has the ability to either capture system information from the vehicle automatically by performing a complete system scan looking for modules, or quick access by the user selecting the individual modules to scan (engine, transmission, brakes, etc. only),” Hoyland says.
He liked that he could perform quick scans on specific modules rather than wait for the tool to scan all modules on the vehicle.
He also appreciated the ability to select either the vehicle, or engine-specific information, and liked having a link to vehicle service information on the tool to quickly access information.
The number one benefit for Hoyland was the tool’s Tech-to-Tech feature.
“This feature allows a technician with the same series of tool to log into a vehicle in the field and perform all functions of the scan tool,” Hoyland says. “This [means] repair shops or fleet centers can keep their diagnostic technician in the shop and send field service personnel into the field with a tool to connect to the vehicle. This allows a shop to maximize their resources and could also be used as a teaching tool.”
Hoyland says the ease of use, the amount of information available and the fast boot-up time of the tools is “outstanding”. He adds the bidirectional capabilities are very good, and the navigation to obtain specific module information is easy to use.
