How To: Gaggia Classic Remove Stubborn Group Components
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- čas přidán 8. 09. 2024
- Learn the tricks for removing shower screen screw, shower screen holding plate and group gasket of the Gaggia Classic and Classic Pro. These parts can be difficult to remove - especially in neglected machines. Upgrade parts like IMS Nanotech Shower Screen, Stainless Steel Shower Screen Holding Plate and Caffewerks Silicone Group Gaskets are covered as well.
Part links...
IMS Nanotech Shower Screen for Classic/Classic Pro: www.wholelatte...
Stainless Steel Shower Screen Holding Plate: www.wholelatte...
Caffewerks 8mm Orange Group Gasket (for relatively new Classic/Classic Pro): www.wholelatte...
Caffewerks 8.5mm Yellow Group Gasket (for older Classic/Classic Pro): www.wholelatte...
Related Video...
How to Trick Out a Gaggia Classic/Classic Pro: • How to Trick Out a Gag...
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To remove my 2019 aluminum shower screen holding plate, I covered the holding plate with citric acid (de-scaler) and waited a couple hours. Then I took a small hammer and a punch and vigorously whacked on the plate from all sides. I pried with a screwdriver, I spent 45 minutes shredding the old rubber group head gasket and removed it to be sure the de-scaler was in contact with the seam between the holding plate and the main group head fixture. More banging. It finally popped free before I resorted to using a propane torch to heat the plate. I run very hard water through theClassic Pro and hadn't removed the plate in 3 years. The scaling had cemented the pieces together. I remounted the plate with food-grade silicon grease and I have a stainless plate on order. Lucky I've done mechanical work and have a lot of tools and tricks.
Hi jb, Thanks for sharing your experience! Brute force and acid can do the trick. Stainless steel plate should make it easier in the future. I'll gently suggest filtering your water to reduce calcium content. If properly treated, no scale will form so you can eliminate or reduce the need to descale the machine. We like filtering options from BWT Water and More which exchange magnesium for calcium in hard water. These leave you with mineral level needed for good flavor that does not form scale in the machine.
In reservoir BWT Bestcup filter: www.wholelattelove.com/products/bwt-bestcup-m-package?variant=21082523664438
In reservoir BWT Bestsvae pad filter: www.wholelattelove.com/products/bwt-bestsave-s-anti-scale-filter?variant=14409382723643
BWT Aqualizer Pitcher: www.wholelattelove.com/products/bwt-aqualizer-2-6-l-pitcher-with-illuminated-baselight?variant=41552648241206
Marc! Thank you so much for this video. Wish I had found it earlier. The screw trick is golden. I literally spent over an hour chiseling away at my old rock hard gasket without any significant progress and an unfortunately casualty of scratching my chrome housing because someone else's video said that was the only solution. 10 seconds of using the screw and using some pliers to pull on it and my gasket is out! (Quickmill Silvano)
Hey JN, You are welcome and thanks for taking a moment to leave your comment!
Marc
This video is forever useful.
Fantastic video! I'm Italian and yet I had NO clue how to service my Gaggia classic!
Great to hear!
WLL is best coffee co in NA. Don’t they have good videos in Europe?
Always great "how to" videos for us Gaggia Pro owners. Thanks
Glad it was helpful - thanks for the comment!
I got a refurbed GCP from you guys, it was less expensive and came completely checked out. I just did a group holder/shower upgrade today, and a while back did the 9 bar spring. I still have the stock portafilter holder but will get a bottomless next. Your videos have been instrumental on choosing, brewing, and upgrading my stuff. THANK YOU! -m
Hi Madison, Thanks for the report on your Gaggia Classic. Sounds like you are enjoying the machine. As always we are happy to help fellow espresso lovers! ps. You're lucky to have scored a refurb GCP they go quick when available!
that little tip, the one to use the wood screw into a brittle old gasket, that saved me alot of work thank you!
Hey BD, You are welcome! Thanks a whole latte for taking a moment to leave your comment!
I did these upgrades and it made a big improvement. Whole Latte Love is the best.
Hey Felix, Thanks for the comment - it really does make a difference. And you're the best for sharing your results with others!
Marc
Many thanks for the video 🙏 the trick with the screw to remove old rubber ring saved a ton of sweat for me 😂 awesome work guys, keep it up!
thanks a million for this video. I tried other methods before and did not work. Your instructions were clear and just worked. Very happy with result.
Hi Belkis, You're welcome and thank you for taking a moment to leave a comment!
Marc
I really appreciate this. Got the nano shower screen and will order the orange seal and stainless steel holding plate. This video answers all my questions. Thank you!
You are welcome! Thanks for the comment!
Marc
Thanks Marc, needed to replace the oring today and this helped!
Hi KC, you are welcome - thanks for taking a moment to leave your comment. It's appreciated a whole latte!
Marc
Omg I literally just had this problem an hour before this was released! I figured it out though, but good to have a reference video in case I have trouble again.
Hi RJ, Timing is everything!
Marc
Awesome video, Thank you!
Glad you liked it!
Hi Marc
I have been subscribed now for about 18 months and love all your hints and tips for everything coffee, have now decided to upgrade from my Gaggia Classic, early model, to a Bazzera BZ09 as am happy with a single boiler machine, also I recently purchased a Baratza Vario grinder based on all your tests and recommendations, I love it too, I started off with the Breville Smart Pro but found as you suggested it does make for 'clumpy' grinds.
Keep up with such a great channel 👍
Lester
Hey greaser! Thanks for subscribing and sharing your upgrade path. Compared to the BSGP the Vario offers a much better grind!
Marc
Would love to see you demo the Bazzera BZ09 sometime as haven't found any videos on this machine only in a foreign language, I am based in the UK
You guys are beyond helpful
Hi Cris, Thanks!
No luck using screwdrivers, but a PH2 bit on a 12v impact driver worked effortlessly for me. It was the only thing that allowed me to put a bit directly under the screw without stripping it
Hey Zhian, Thanks for sharing the tip! Right tool makes all the difference!
Marc
Another great useful video Marc for Gaggia users.
Happy New Year to you all when it comes.
Kind regards from Scotland.
Johnny
Happy new year!
Marc
Just to re-emphasize... #2 sized driver head! Many people do not realize that there are different sized Phillips heads. And the smaller heads seem to fit in so well. It is VERY important to get a correct sized head to get out any stubborn screw
Hi Ardy, Thanks for the emphasis - very, very true! And, clean the slots out of the screw head for complete tool contact.
Marc
Thanks for the video and upgrade options for the system. I was just thinking it would be nice if there was a section on the website where all this was "kitted up". For example, if I go to the Gaggia Classic Pro page on your website, there would be a link to a page for applicable upgrades, rather than search around to piece things together or trade phone calls and emails to sort it out....something to make it easier for me to pursue upgrades...just a thought. You guys have the best videos...love them all!
Hi Tim, Thanks for the kind comments and suggestion. I passed your excellent suggestion on to our product team. I know we are working on discounted maintenance packages for machines which include descaler, backflush cleaner, etc. I've always wanted a pro upgrade kit or similar for the Classic. One thing you can do now is go to the Gaggia Classic page, pretend like you're buying one, so click "add to cart and customize" and it'll go into the "bundler". In the bundler you'll be presented with curated options for upgrades and other associated items that work with the machine. It's far from perfect but at least shows you the upgrades.
Marc
Thank you so much you have helped me fix my problem
My stock gasket lasted less than 6 months. Was a little brittle and was leaking water past the head. Just put in a silicone. Hope it fixes the prob
Hi D, Should last longer. Also, be sure to clean the group head area regularly to extend gasket life. Residual grounds are like sandpaper.
Btw, before destroying the shower screen, I would try heating up the screw. It likely has coffee oil that has congealed over time... and adding some heat will soften the oil
Hi Ardy, Yes a little heat can help soften up the oils. As mentioned in the video I talked to our lead repair tech. Heat was always my go to when working on stubborn car parts. He's done 100's of these over the years and says he's never had to use heat and never failed to remove that shower screen screw. His biggest piece of advice was having the screw driver as straight up/down as possible and making sure the screw head slots are clean.
Marc
@@Wholelattelovepage
Marc, sorry that I missed your reference to heating the screw.
Re #2 Phillips driver. This important detail can be problematic since almost no drivers or bits are labeled (except at the store). As a result, people often revert to trial and error. And, using this methodology, #1 size can seem good enough.
The Wood screw in stuck gasket idea is brilliant. I wish I knew about it before I switched to silicon gaskets. Although, I think I would dull the screw tip to reduce potential damage to the gasket seat
When you say add heat - do you mean heat the machine up for awhile and then turn it off and flip it upside? I’m sorry, I’m not mechanically inclined (neither is my husband lol).
@@mollycule2792
Yes… you could turn on the steam switch until light goes off…. Then it will be very hot
Many thanks! Realy useful video.
Hi BP, You are welcome and thanks for the comment!
Marc
Perfect coffee machine for home 🥰
It really is!
Everyone should really by removing the screen for cleaning every 4-7 days depending on use. As well as the the dispersion plate every couple of weeks. Why leave it until it gets stuck? You wouldn’t drink from a coffee cup that hasn’t been washed for weeks. Cleanliness is key!
Hey Sami, thanks for the comment! 4-7 days for screen removal is maybe on the aggressive side but hey, whatever works for you. I’d be good with every few months depending on usage level. Backflushing and group brushing every couple weeks (will not on Classics with 3way valve - some older EURO Classics do not have 3 way) should be sufficient.
Marc
I wipe my screen after every use with a damp cloth and I unscrew and remove and clean shower screen every 1-2 weeks depending on use without turning it over. If you remove screen regularly it's not difficult. I found the back side of screen holds coffee grinds residue between shots so I like to keep clean between back flushes.
@@ggivensjr good man! cleanliness is next to godliness!
Just good practice!
Luv your videos Mark =)
I have 2 questions please:
1- what is the time for the Gasket replacement? every 6 -12 months? or as indicated by my portafilter clocking in too far or leaks?
2- Shall I use 8mm or 8.5mm Gasket for my Gaggia Classic pro 30?
Thx ..
How do you get the screen to come off - even the thinnest screwdriver I can't get it out - can you show an example?
Hi CJ, Here's a more recent video showing how to remove: czcams.com/video/Kigi1ggnTJ0/video.html
I recently purchased a GCP from WLL and haven't used it yet. Burning the midnight oil watching so many useful videos from the GCP community. If I upgrade to the IMS shower screen immediately, would I also need to install a new gasket too even if it is new? 8 MM Cafewerks? Stainless steel plate is stock I believe from the previous response. Why are there many "Brass plate kits" out there? Is there a difference in taste or performance in nanotech or non-coated shower screens?
There are so many mods (PID, OPV, Gauge, Dimmer, Gaggianno..) and I just want to enjoy the GCP using good techniques (temp surf, preinfusion, etc.) for a bit.
Hi t, Thanks for your patronage and questions. Stainless plate is stock now. If you upgrade to the IMS shower you do not need to change the gasket. Probably brass plates out there to upgrade from old aluminum plates. I'd stay away from brass. SS is better and unless you're 100% certain the brass is lead free there might be lead in it. Lot's of people hack entry-level machines with PID, OPV etc. Personally I would not bother. Unless you're doing it for the sake of tinkering it's not necessary and you'd be better off upgrading to a machine with PID etc. from the factory down the road.
Marc
Marc I have a Paros gaggia model. The water feature works the steam feature works . I have also descaled the machine several times, cleaned the screen ofthe porta filter but the porta system does not want to let water flow for the making of an espresso. What is my next step? Thanks Floyd
Hi Floyd, Well that's a "vintage" model. Unfortunately I do not have support documents for the unit. Best advice is to trace the water delivery path from the boiler to the group and check for obstructions - limescale deposits are a potential cause. Scale can be bad enough that descaling will not solve the problem.
Marc
super useful vid. thanks.
You're welcome!
Marc
What happens if the screw was stripped? I need help ASAP. I need my espresso lol!
I need mine too. Not to worry the screw is available here: www.wholelattelove.com/products/shower-screen-screw-m5x8-uni-7688-din-965-stainless
Love it…i bought this machine about 5+ years ago. However, last week, only some water coming out of the but not much. Even when I removed the coffee loader and only the group gasket left. Now, hot water still not coming out that much, and when I turned off the coffee making switch, no water shooting out of the excess pressure release pipe either (the small vertical pipe on the left). However, if I turned on both buttons (the froster and the coffee making), then hot water shooting out of the froster wand like normal. I have two questions: 1). It does not seem like the machine has any clogging issue with the filter group. 2). I was able to remove the flat (1st) gasket, but the second filter group does not come out. It seems to be stuck due to too much mineral build-up. Please if you can advise on what could be the issue and how to remove the stubborn second filter group. Thanks very much. If i need some parts to fix this please let me know the part names and numbers.
Hi Binh, Here's a link to our support video collection for the Gaggia Classic Pro. Solution to your issue and more can be found there: support.wholelattelove.com/hc/en-us/sections/1500000384362-Gaggia-Classic-Pro
As you suspect your issue is likely due to limescale (mineral) build up. Most likely at the 3-way solenoid valve. Here's our video showing how to clean or replace the 3-way solenoid: czcams.com/video/0ipvBdWaVzQ/video.html
Cleaning usually resolves the issue.
Thanks. Looks like I might need to replace the one hole group head
I got gaggia classis used several yrs ago. Just recently realized it needs to be cleaned. I however can't get the shower screen holding plate out. I tried to use flat head screwdriver and a longer center screw. Any other ideas? Will pouring hot water help loosen things?
Hi HC, Heating the machine up should make things easier but at some point you may have to brute force it off.
Thanks Marc
My pleasure!
Marc
I acquired a pre-2015 Gaggia Classic on Facebook marketplace as a complete newb. The seller told me it was clean and maintained. Yeah, right. I'm trying to replace the group gasket and can't get it to budge, even with the wood screw trick. What else can I do? Help!
Hi KAT, Here's a more recent video with other methods: czcams.com/video/Kigi1ggnTJ0/video.html
At some point it may require brute force.
Marc
03:43 I just tried to remove the thick shower plate on my fairly new 2 month old Gaggia and this thing is so stuck on there, it doesn't even wiggle the slightest bit. Not even with a screw driver als leverage. Any suggestions???
Hi f, The leverage with screwdriver usually does the trick. Try going at it from different angles. Can also carefully try some "harmonic distortion". Basically get the screwdriver blade on the edge of the holding plate and tap with hammer. If no love with that, turn machine upside down and apply a Cafiza solution to the plate and allow to soak for 20 minutes. Soak up solution and try the screwdriver again.
Is there any tricks to removing a stubborn tube for the solenoid valve? Mine seems to be almost fused, and I can’t remove the water tank because of it.
Hi p, Thanks for the question. Have you tried loosening the nut at the top of the tube? That nut compresses an o-ring which helps hold the tube in place. There may be some mineral build up latching onto the tube making removal difficult. Turning the nut might help break the seal.
@@Wholelattelovepage thank you! Yes I finally able to get it removed, took a decent amount of force but we are good to go! I appreciate the help 🙌
Also installed a 9bar spring and new gasket thanks to your videos, and my shots are now pulling perfectly.
i heard you say in the video that the grouphead plate is made from aluminum. i read the cafiza bottle and it says don't use on aluminum. what's up with that.
your very good at covering all the bases by the way when you do the instructional videos.
Hi bfm, Thanks for the comment and question. IMO Cafiza is fine for backflushing the classic. The "not recommended for aluminum" on Cafiza is out of an abundance of caution probably in regards to soaking aluminum parts for extended periods in Cafiza solution. Contact time is limited when backflushing. It's similar to advice regarding citric acid descalers and aluminum - fine so long as contact time is limited. If concerned there's the stainless steel holding plate upgrade.
Marc
Can you please verify if the correct dimensions are 73x57x8.0 or 72x57x8.0? The oem silicone gasket that they install from the factory is 73x57x8.5
Hey g tt, this is the right silicone gasket for the Gaggia Classic and Classic Pro www.wholelattelove.com/collections/group-gaskets/products/caffewerks-silicone-group-gasket-73-x-57-x-8-5mm
@@Wholelattelovepage thank you very much
I got mine back in 2019. That steel drainage rod on the left (when looking front on) does not pop out like that. Mine has to be unscrewed and is impossible to screw back in without haveing to go in through the top, by taking the whole top off to reveal all the insides. I tried it once and it took me nearly 3 hours to get it back on, which I have no desire to do again so I am unable to remove the water reservoir from the front. Am I doing something wrong or is this inherent in older models?
Hi EMDW, Here's a video which covers issue with the decompression duct - the drainage rod you refer to. Video is more about difficulties when inserting the duct but demonstrates how an O ring within the attachment point works which may be causing you trouble: czcams.com/video/t-VYpzMPb9g/video.html
Thank you, I'll check it out@@Wholelattelovepage
I have an evo and ordered a new brew group. How do I install that part ?
Hi d, I have this very detailed video showing how to open up, clean and replace the boiler on a previous Gaggia Classic Pro model. The process is nearly identical on the Evo model czcams.com/video/2XPnXp0CyaI/video.htmlsi=zBUq-ATgHH3_5Dnt
Another informative video. It's been about a month since I received my GCP from Whole Latte and just ordered the maintenance package a few days ago. I'm wondering how often, if ever, this removal of group components needs to be done if I back flush weekly and am descaling every 2-3 months? I wouldn't want the screen or gasket to get stuck.
Hi Yvette, Thanks for the comment, question and your patronage! There's no need to remove the group gasket until it's time for replacement as indicated by your portafilter clocking in too far or leaks. Doesn't hurt to remove the shower screen and holding plate and clean those up when descaling. Newer Gaggia Classic Pros like yours have a stainless holding plate which is less likely to get stuck than the non-stainless plates on older Gaggia Classics.
Marc
Could I take off the group the same way on a Gaggia 2006?
Hi LC, Should be very similar.
I have an "Espresso Gaggia", beige & black plastic, mid-80's, but looks very similar. Any idea if one of those gaskets and new group components would fit? Machine working fine, thank you.
My shower screen screw is stripped. Is there any way to remove it without sacrificing the screen?
Hi KSVS, If you can get a tool to bite into the screwhead. Otherwise you'll have to sacrifice the screen.
@@Wholelattelovepage Thank you for the reply, I really appreciate it. Firstly I'm a huge fan of your content. Helped me a ton with brewing.
Secondly, it seems like sacrificing the screen is the only option.
Besides Gaggia or Jura could you also show DeLonghi and other brands once in awhile? You seem to favor certain brands. Thank you.
As the owner of both a Delonghi and a Gaggia, there is no way a Delonghi machine is as repairable as a good Gaggia. You can't get parts, and they're built out of plastic. I know it's a disappointment to owners who love their machines, but you really do have to go to the more expensive ones to be able to fix them up without a donor machine to hand.
@@truckerallikatuk your talkin out by of your @ss sister. It was a general comment that these people favor certain brands and are biased. That’s all I said. I wouldn’t think of putting my hands on these machines. I could void the manufacturer’s warranty. 🙄
Hi Jaime, thanks for the comment. Here are a couple recent videos featuring DeLonghi machines:
czcams.com/video/8qKLgQkBtxY/video.html
czcams.com/video/EJvEO7ZlwNA/video.html
If you use the search feature on our youtube channel, you'll find dozens more DeLonghi videos, as well as hundreds of videos of other brands.
AJ
@@Wholelattelovepage thank you AJ
Hello there! Just got a GCP, latest model (built in Oct 2021) and it seems the portafilter doesn't want to turn (stays at 7-8 o'clock). But I checked the grouphead roughly and the "rubber" gasket is red, another coffee shop told me the newer machines already have a sillicone gasket on. Should I get an orange one instead? I have the machine only since few days, there's not a lot of build up up there. Thanks!
Hey KG, Congrats on your new GCP. With some use the stock gasket will break in and clock in further. But you can get this orange silicone gasket: www.wholelattelove.com/collections/group-gaskets/products/caffewerks-silicone-group-gasket-73-x-57-x-8mm
The silicone gaskets are softer and last longer.
Marc
After I take the water tank out should I do anything to “dry out” the inside of my gaggia before attempting to turn it upside down or remove the shower screen? Thanks
Hi Marc, thank you for your great videos. Two months ago I purchased a GCP in thunder black color, haven't used it yet, but I am worried that it might came with a aluminum shower screen holder plate. How would I know if it's stainless steel or aluminum?
Hi s, You are welcome for the videos! If you got the machine from us near 100% certain it has the stainless holding plate. A few of the very first GCPs had an aluminum plate but ours have all been stainless for awhile now. If you take the shower screen off stainless is obvious with the shine. Aluminum has a much duller look. Hope that helps!
Marc
Hey Marc!
I’ve succesfully removed the stock shower screen.
I have placed an IMS shower screen, but for some reason I chose to use the screw that came along with it (hexagon cap).
After tightning to the max, the screw head was still popping out. So I decided to unscrew it, and use the original screw.
Here’s my problem, as I attempted to unscrew it, the screw now spins with the shower screen in infinity and it doesn’t come off in either direction.
Has this ever happened to you? Do you happen to have any advice for this scenario?
Hey rr, That has not happened to me. Sounds like the threads in that hole are stripped but hard to say for sure. If they are you may need to replace the shower screen holding plate: www.wholelattelove.com/products/gaggia-classic-stainless-steel-shower-holding-plate
Not knowing exactly which Classic you have, I wonder if it's an older one which used an aluminum holding plate? The part above is made of stainless steel (now stock on Gaggia Classic Pro and Evo Pro) and fits older Classics as well.
Hope that helps!
Marc
Mr. Marc, how often do you recommend removing and cleaning the shower screen and shower screen plate?
Hi dm, Depends on use level and other variables like how often you backflush. If I were using 2-3 times daily and doing normal weekly water only backflush and backflush with detergent every 100 or so brew cycles I'd have a look every 60 days. If really dirty increase frequency. if looking good decrease frequency.
@@Wholelattelovepage Well, I just purchased by GCP from WLL a little over a month ago. We have very hard water so I did a descale and removed the shower screen, plate, and gasket for cleaning. They were spotless, so I guess I'll spread that maintenance out a little. I think I'll continue descaling the boiler once a month though.
I have a Gaggia Brera and I would like to open up the side panel to put in a little bit of insulation tape around the perimeter of the panel because mine is ungodly loud and vibrates like crazy. It did not do this when it was new but I’ve had it a few years now and it’s just a little buzzy now. Can anybody out there help me figure out how to take off this other panel?!
Hey oB, This video will show you how to remove the Brera panels: czcams.com/video/x2Phddgy7mI/video.html
@@Wholelattelovepage oh my gosh, yes, thank you so very much! I have watched a lot of you guys videos (one in particular every time I need to descale because I have awful memory!) Can’t thank you enough!!
@@omgitsBenjamin It's what we do!
Hi Mark! I bought a Gaggia Classic in 2016, should I get the orange or yellow gasket? Thanks for the great video!
Hey RG, You are welcome and thanks for the comment! If your PF was is was clocking into to 6 o'clock with current gasket then get the orange one. If clocking beyond 6 then get yellow.
Marc
Every technical video you make reminds me of those you use to make with Todd, but he hasn't been on camera for a while, is he still around?
Hi PR, Thanks for the comment. Yes, Todd is still around. He's been heavily involved in some other projects for a few months so less available for videos. Also, we closed down our intermingling a great deal due to social distancing. I'm sure Todd will be back for more videos in the coming months!
Marc
Thanks for the video, very useful. Unfortunately I did manage to strip the screw holding the shower screen in place... How would you suggest I undo the screw? Any suggestion is much appreciated! :)
Hi Victor, You may need to use a screw extractor like an "Easy Out" tool.
@@Wholelattelovepage thank you I’ll look for such tool.
Mark, what do you think about the 9 bar OPV on the Gaggia Classic?
Hey C, I know people do it. I have used a lot of Gaggia Classics over the last decade and have never changed one. In machines with vibration pumps manufacturers almost always set static pressures much higher than 9 bar. They do this because vibration pumps move less water than commercial rotary pumps. The vibe pump Rancilio Silvia Pro X is a good example. It shows 12 bar on the machine's gauge when producing 9 bar on a Scace test. What some people miss when modding for 9 bar static pressure measured at the group is pressure during an extraction will be much lower due to pressure bleeding off. I did this video a couple of weeks ago covering brew pressures and why they often seem high on vibration pump machines: czcams.com/video/Z2DNW7ZVolg/video.html
Marc
Hii Mark! This is Saurabh wishing you a very happy new year and warm wishes from india.
I had a question related to an espresso machine. I am planning to open a small cafe in my city and I was wondering if "Carimali Bubble 2 group" espresso machine is a good option?
Hi SJ, Happy New Year to you! Unfortunately I have no experience or information on that machine.
Marc
Marc, Can you suggest a budget 2 group espresso machine?
Just have to ask, is there any reason that Gaggia doesnt use a hex head style screw for the shower plate rather than a Phillips head? Seems like everything is designed just about perfectly except for that.
Hi k, Thanks for the question. I'm not entirely certain why. My guess is the hex head would require more depth to the screw head.
Marc
My group head only has a central bolt. Whats wrong with it 😂
I assume that before flip upside down the machine, it needs to free from water either in the water tank but also in the boiler, so how can we know that is completely water free before flip it?
Hi cv, Thanks for the question. Yes, definitely empty that reservoir! But, no need to empty the boiler.
Marc
@@Wholelattelovepage hi Marc, just want to confirm. To flip the machine, all i need is just to take out the tank/reservoir? Do i need to flush or anything so that no leaking or whatsoever. Is it save to flip even when there's still water in boiler? Sorry if this has been asking before, totally a noob with this machine. Thanks in advance. 🙏
Mine was impossible... Too tight
Hi EH, Check out this recent video which has another trick for removing difficult components: Gaggia Classic: How to Remove & Service Shower Screen and Group Head Components: czcams.com/video/Kigi1ggnTJ0/video.html
Marc
Marc would it make that much of a difference to change the Gaggia group plate and screen. ? Thanks I mean the brass would ss be the same.
Hi DD, I'd stay away from brass. FYI brass was never used by Gaggia as far as I know. From Gaggia it's either aluminum or stainless steel. If there are 3rd party brass shower holding plates available I'd want very solid proof they are certified lead free. Some brass is not and disreputable manufacturers can say whatever they want.
Marc
Hey WLL, I just ordered a GCP from you guys a month back and noticed if I press the brew button (no porta)...the left 2 streams of water are significantly more "flow" than the right 2 streams of water.
When making espresso, I find 80/20 split out of the 2 spouts in the portafilter.
Do you have any recommendations? It's only 1 month old (maybe 30-40 shots) old. Thx.
I'm having the same problem. Not an 80/20 split closer to a 60/40 or 70/30
@@frankbiscione1201 thanks frank. Hope someone from WLL replies. Happy holidays.
It may be just the way the spouts are. You can get replacement spouts from a whole heap of places. Or it may be as simple as your machine not being quite level. If it's tilted even slightly to one side, then the coffee will prefer to go out the lower spout.
Maybe take a look at the shower screen, hold it in front of a lightbulb and look if it's clogged up. But in general an uneven distribution of the water won't make a difference as the pressure of the water spreads evenly
@@frankbiscione1201 you have to clean the shower screen after each session of espresso making. the shower screen clogs with grinds fast. if you don''t do that odds are that is what is giving you uneven distribution of water. one other thing, you have to use a dedicated grouphead cleaning brush, a toothbrush won't work in properly cleaning the shower screen.
I stripped a screw on the shower holding plate and have no idea how to get it out Bc of the limited space. I may have to get a small drill for that one screw
Hi Tlotg, If you have extensions that can accept a bit in the end and get the meat of the drill above the base plate you might have success. Something like what I showed in the video. Or, if you have not already sacrificed the shower screen muscle that out so you can get to bolts holding in the shower screen holding plate. Remove the holding plate and try and get the screw out with drill/easy out or just replace both the holding plate and shower screen. Hope that helps!
Marc
@@Wholelattelovepage I will try it and let you know. I’m definitely buying the new screen and stainless holder
@@thelawofthegun6237 if you don't mind a suggestion or 2, you can go to local hardware store and get a small kit that has bits you put in a drill to remove stripped screws, you can pry up edge of screen and use needle nose pliers to turn it counter clockwise which should loosen the screw enough to use a screw driver. Of course you'll need to replace with new screen.
Hi Mark! I bought this Classic pro back in April so not even a year of ownership yet, would recommend to get these upgrades done or there's no need for that yet?, I use it almost everyday. Thanks!
Hi SP, If you are happy with current performance then there's no huge need to upgrade. That said, The stainless steel holding plate will is heavier so has more thermal mass for better temperature stability. Also less likely to become a stubborn to remove part in years to come. The screw which holds the shower screen to the holding plate is SS as well. IMO best to have same metal receiver as the fastener. The IMS shower screen is easier to clean and will stay cleaner than stock. Think of it as a non-stick pan. The stock group gasket is a wear item so will need replacement at some point - especially with daily use. Hope that helps!
Marc
@@Wholelattelovepage Thank you Mark! Very helpful!
Hello from Canada. I have a Gaggia classic pro, a few months now. My portafilter head has become very tight to twist in, I think I have cleaned any coffee grounds out that might have built up, but its still tight. Does that gasket swell with use and do you think that might be the problem ? Thank you
Hi Ganjaman, Hello from US! If you have the stock gasket which came with the machine they usually break in with some use but might not be as slippery with time. Make sure it's clean - sounds like you checked that. Might consider the Orange silicone gasket if not already using one: wholelattelove.ca/products/caffewerks-silicone-group-gasket-73-x-57-x-8mm Out of stock at the moment but they are more forgiving.
Marc
Hello Marc, still running the stock gasket. Maybe I will empty the machine out, flip it over and have a better look. I appreciate the link and the fact I can now purchase in Canadian dollars via your new Canadian online store. Take care and thank you for all the tips and tricks you and your crew share with us 😎
@@ganjaman3912 you’re welcome! Sounds like a good plan.
Marc
Is the stainless steel shower plate any better than a brass one?
Hi Jonas, IMO YES! I'd stay away from brass. Thermal characteristics of SS and brass are similar but SS is a harder material. Also not all brass is lead free!
Marc
Cannot find a group gasket for my Gaggia Classic, it has different shape than your one. Sent you an email a few weeks ago, but there is still no solution or advices regarding my gasket =(
Hi NP, As far as I know the classic has always used the same gasket so I do not think there's other advice to give. Are you sure you have a Gaggia Classic. Know for a fact there's been no change to the group for at least a decade in the US.
Marc
@@Wholelattelovepage Hi Mark! Thanks for your answer. I bought my Gaggia in Moscow, Russia around 3 years ago. I am sure on 200% that it is Gaggia Classic =)
Does whole latte love sell replacement shower screw for the pro?
Hi KV, We sure do! It's right here: www.wholelattelove.com/products/shower-screen-screw-m5x8-uni-7688-din-965-stainless
Marc
When will you get more IMS Nanotech Gaggia Classic Shower Screens in? 😁
Hi Tyler, I reached out to our product specialist. Just received more - should be in the system and available soon hopefully tomorrow.
Marc
@@Wholelattelovepage Did they sell out again because it still shows as sold out 😅
I was waiting for it too. ended up buying it from guy in Bulgaria on ebay, waited 3 months for delivery. Still not sure if its authentic, i would wait till WLL has them on sale. And of course i ended up stripping the darn screw while getting the shower out...
Can you still use the old yellow silicone gasket on the GC pro?
Hi Max, Thanks for the question. Yes you can. Your GCP is relatively new so the orange silicone gasket may be a better choice. As the machine ages or for those with more broken in Classics use the yellow silicone gasket which is .5mm thicker and helps make up for wear in the group.
Yellow Gasket: www.wholelattelove.com/products/caffewerks-silicone-group-gasket-73-x-57-x-8-5mm
Orange Gasket: www.wholelattelove.com/products/caffewerks-silicone-group-gasket-73-x-57-x-8mm
Marc
i stripped the screw head :( SOS
Bummer. Assume you are talking about the screw for shower screen? If so you're probably going to have to sacrifice the screen. Basically rip it off in order to get access/leverage on the screw head with a pair of pliers or similar.
that worked.. pesky little thing. thank you!
@@ThePonytube you’re welcome!