When the steam tap keeps hissing after you close it
On the Linea Classic, the steam valve sits directly behind the knob, and everything that has to stay sealed between the knob and the boiler depends on a few rubber parts. This O-ring is one of them; the manufacturer lists it under the number L167/2.
A steam valve works under the harshest conditions in the whole machine: high temperature, constant movement, alternating dry and wet. No other rubber part ages as quickly. That this ring has to be replaced at some point is therefore not a defect but part of normal maintenance.
When it’s due
The steam tap keeps hissing quietly after you have closed it. Moisture escapes at the knob, and the valve spindle becomes noticeably stiff or – conversely – conspicuously loose. Sometimes a white limescale rim appears under the cover. When removed, the ring is hard and flattened on two sides. A valve that keeps letting steam through after closing should be put right promptly – escaping steam is not something you leave running.
At a glance
| Type |
O-ring for the steam valve |
| Dimensions |
Not stated in our documentation – the part number is what counts |
| Material |
Not stated in our documentation |
| Location |
Steam valve behind the knob |
| Fits |
La Marzocco Linea Classic |
| Scope of delivery |
1 O-ring – without valve, without valve spindle |
| Part number |
L167/2 |
| Version |
Original spare part |
| Brand |
La Marzocco |
| Installation |
Installation by a qualified technician recommended |
Important for installation
The steam valve is connected directly to the steam boiler. Let the machine cool down, disconnect it from the mains and release the pressure completely before opening anything – escaping steam scalds instantly. We deliberately do not give step-by-step instructions here. After reassembly, the valve is opened and closed under pressure and the spot is checked while warm.
Who it’s for
For service companies overhauling the steam valve of a Linea Classic, and for hospitality businesses that keep a few of these rings in stock. In day-to-day operation, a hissing steam tap is not a cosmetic flaw but lost boiler energy – and at some point the pressure no longer holds.
What goes with it
The same area includes the Linea Classic steam valve, the steam knob with insert and logo and the complete steam wand. For the brew group of the same machine, there is the group head flange gasket in Viton. For an overview, see La Marzocco Linea Classic spare parts and the Original spare parts section.
From our workshop in Bern and Zurich
On the steam valve, we never replace just one ring but always the whole set on the valve spindle. The valve is taken apart in ten minutes, but nobody likes taking it apart a second time – and the second rubber part rarely lasts longer than the first. That’s our routine, not a manufacturer requirement. After the service, the milk foams up cleanly again for us, ideally with Nutty Delight; sweeter with Cozy Chocolate, stronger with Very Nutty. More in Coffee beans.
No returns
Original spare parts are excluded from exchange and return. They are sourced specifically for each order and cannot be resold after installation or a test fit on the machine. So check your machine’s model, year of manufacture and serial number before ordering – or drop us a quick line and we’ll clarify the fit together. Your rights in the case of defective goods remain unaffected.
Is the steam valve included?
No, you only receive the O-ring. We list the complete valve and the valve spindle as separate items.
Does the ring also fit other models?
Our documentation lists the Linea Classic for L167/2. Other machines use other numbers – send us the serial number and we’ll check before you order.
My steam tap still hisses despite a new ring. Why?
Then it’s usually the valve seat that is scaled up or worn out, not the seal. This can be assessed with the valve open; get in touch and we’ll take a look.
What material is the ring made of?
Our documentation doesn’t specify that. The part number L167/2 is binding.
Can I pick up the part at your Showroom?
Yes. We’re in Bern at Gerberngasse 44 and in Zurich at Hagenholzstrasse 50b. Let us know shortly beforehand and the part will be ready for you.
Questions about the fit? Write to us at [email protected]. We deliver across Switzerland and to Liechtenstein in 2-4 working days.
