The black panel on the steam side of the GS3
On the steam handle side of the GS3 there is a separate front plate with the cut-out for the lever. It takes the most punishment in daily use: milk splashes, cloth edges, the rim of the milk jug, and over the years the heat from the steam area directly behind it.
On the black finish you can see every one of these marks. Baked-on milk rings eventually can no longer be wiped off, and where the coating has worn through, bright metal shows. If the cut-out around the lever becomes worn out, the steam handle suddenly has play. Part number C.1.043.60.
When it's due
- Baked-on milk rings that can no longer be removed.
- Bright scratches where the metal shows through.
- The cut-out around the steam lever is worn out and the handle has play.
- Chipped coating around the opening.
- The plate is dented and no longer sits flush.
At a glance
| Type |
Front plate, steam handle side panel |
| Installation location |
Front of the housing, steam handle side |
| Fits |
La Marzocco GS3. For older years of manufacture, send us the serial number and we'll check the cut-out. |
| Scope of delivery |
1 front plate in black. Steam handle, valve, screws and seals are not included. |
| Part number |
C.1.043.60 |
| Finish |
Black |
| Brand |
La Marzocco |
| Installation |
Installation by a specialist recommended |
Important for installation
To replace it, the front has to be opened. Behind it are the steam area and wiring. Disconnect the machine from the mains, let it cool down completely and depressurise it, otherwise there is still hot steam behind the valve. We deliberately do not give step-by-step instructions here.
Who it's for
For anyone with a black GS3 whose steam side has suffered visually, and for workshops that want to get the steam lever free of play again without replacing the entire valve assembly.
What goes with it
From our workshop
In Bern and Zurich we wipe milk away immediately while it is still warm – once it has dried, you need cleaner, and that attacks the black coating. A damp cloth straight after frothing saves half the cleaning later. With it, a cappuccino made with Cozy Chocolate. That's our routine, not a manufacturer specification.
Returns excluded
Service parts are excluded from exchange and return. They are procured specifically for each order and cannot be resold after installation or a trial fitting on the machine. So check the model, year of manufacture and serial number of your machine before ordering – or drop us a line and we'll clarify the fit together. This does not affect your rights in the case of defective goods.
Frequently asked questions
Is the steam handle included?
No. Only the panel is supplied. You keep your handle, valve and seals.
My steam lever wobbles. Is this plate the cause?
It could be. If the cut-out is worn out, the lever has lateral play. Just as often, though, a worn valve body is behind it. Send us the serial number and describe the play, and we'll narrow it down.
Does it also fit on the display side?
No. The two front plates of the GS3 have different cut-outs. We stock the plate for the display side separately.
How do I clean it properly?
Damp microfibre cloth, no abrasive cleaner, no descaler on the surface. Then wipe dry.
Can I see the part at your showroom?
Yes. We're in Bern at Gerberngasse 44 and in Zurich at Hagenholzstrasse 50b. Bring the serial number of your machine or the old part, and we'll compare them directly at the counter.
Questions about fit? Write to us at [email protected]. We deliver across Switzerland and to Liechtenstein in 2-4 working days.
