Wild Pcs 559 smd rework station

[twistedxknights]

With the sadness of The radio shack stores closing  ...I managed to get a smd rework station (wild pcs 559) left over from when they were repairing cell phones. ( see attached photo) I was wondering if Hakko parts would work to replace the missing pieces ( tip encloser) .called the company ( wild pcs) and they reffered me to another company (cell repair tools . com)and all i see is complete replacement irons and not pieces for them.....left a voicemail hopefully they call back tomorrow at a  decent time..

[floobydust]

That looks like a generic chinese smt soldering/hot air station model "952D" under many makes Saike, Yihua, SunRun etc.
The soldering iron is a Hakko copy but there are differences so I don't think Hakko sleeve or tip would work.
More about it here: https://www.eevblog.com/forum/reviews/genuine-vs-fake-hakko-936-ceramic-heater-a1321/

[twistedxknights]

well talked with the importer this morning and found out that it was made by Bakku (haven't heard of them till now) and is still offered by them as the 601 model now.. they also said hakko replacement irons should work so I will be trying those.

[twistedxknights]

Well I'll say that the station is working nicely , heats up quickly and has a auto shut off for the heat gun when you put it back. I did get a tip holder  for the handle and it fits.  The hakko 900series compatible tips do fit thought a bit lose like other clones.  While it may not be a genuine hakko soldering station this alternative clone is a nice step up from a pencil soldering iron

Would I recommend buying it brand new? Not really, as they're are cheaper comparable units on the market . Would I recommend buying it used ? If you can get it for a price you're comfortable with. Would I buy another one? If the price was right as there's a mod that I would like to try without sacrificing my working Unit.