A quarter turn and the water stops – 3/8 inch ball valve for the Strada
The ball valve is the most inconspicuous part of the water path and the first thing you reach for when something drips. A quarter turn of the lever, the supply line is shut off, and the work can begin. If it stops working, a ten-minute gasket change turns into a hunt for the main tap under the counter.
This valve has a 3/8 inch male thread on both sides and is fitted into the water supply line of the Strada. You notice it wearing out at the lever: it turns stiffly, sticks halfway, or it is closed and water keeps running in the hose behind it. There is nothing to adjust on a ball valve – the ball and its seats are worn, and then a new one is needed.
When it is due
- The lever can only be turned with force or in jerks.
- When closed, it no longer seals and water keeps dripping behind the valve.
- There is moisture or a limescale ring where the stem exits under the lever.
- The thread is overtightened, stripped or can no longer be sealed.
- The lever sits loosely on the stem and spins freely.
At a glance
| Type |
Ball valve, manually operated, for shutting off the water supply line |
| Installation location |
In the water supply line |
| Connection |
3/8 inch, male thread on both ends |
| Fits |
La Marzocco Strada |
| Scope of delivery |
One ball valve with lever. Sealing material and threaded fittings are not included. |
| Part number |
L164/MM.02 |
| Version |
Original spare part |
| Brand |
La Marzocco |
| Installation |
Installation by a qualified technician recommended |
Important for installation
The valve sits in a pressurised line. Before replacing it, the machine is disconnected from the mains, the building water supply is closed and the line is depressurised. We deliberately do not publish step-by-step instructions for parts under water pressure – if you are unsure here, it is better to call a service technician. We are happy to check the fit beforehand if you send us the serial number.
Who it is for
For businesses with a Strada that plan maintenance themselves and want to have a spare part on the shelf before it sticks. And for service technicians who are already working on the water path during an overhaul and replace the valve at the same time.
What goes with it
All spare parts for the La Marzocco Strada can be found in the machine section. If you need the version with female and male thread, that is the 3/8 inch ball valve with female and male thread. Next to it, the anti-vacuum valve works in the boiler. Everything else is in the original spare parts.
From our workshop in Bern and Zurich: At every service we turn the shut-off valve fully closed and fully open once, even if nobody asked for it. A valve that stays in the same position for years calcifies solid in that position – and then sticks on exactly the morning when you are in a hurry. This is our routine, not a manufacturer requirement. After that, the first cup is due for testing, with us usually with the Nutty Delight or the Cozy Chocolate. If you like it stronger, take the Very Nutty. The whole selection is in the coffee beans.
Returns excluded
Original spare parts are excluded from exchange and return. They are procured on an order-specific basis and cannot be resold after installation or a trial fitting on the machine. Therefore, check the model, year of manufacture and serial number of your machine before ordering – or drop us a short message and we will clarify the fit together. Your rights in the event of defective goods remain unaffected.
Frequently asked questions
How does this valve differ from the other version?
This one has a male thread on both sides, part number L164/MM.02. The other version has a female thread on one side and carries the number L164.02. Which one you need depends on the threaded fittings already installed – before ordering, check whether both counterparts have a female thread.
Is this a solenoid valve?
No. This is a purely mechanical valve that is operated by hand with the lever. It has no coil and no electrical connection.
Can I not simply descale a sticking valve?
It is worth a try if it is only stiff. If it is really stuck or leaks when closed, descaling no longer helps: then the seats around the ball are worn in, and that cannot be undone.
Is sealing material included?
No, the valve is supplied on its own. The technician brings hemp, sealing tape or flat gaskets.
Can I look at the part at your shop?
Yes. In our showrooms at Gerberngasse 44 in Bern and at Hagenholzstrasse 50b in Zurich, we are happy to show you the valve in person – if possible, bring the old part with you.
Questions about the fit? Write to us at [email protected]. We deliver across Switzerland and to Liechtenstein in 2-4 working days.
