Warm wood on a machine made of stainless steel and glass
The ModBar usually stands where it can be seen: set into the counter, face to face with the guest. That is exactly why an operating lever made of walnut makes such a difference on this machine. It takes the chill out of the technical look, it feels warm rather than cold under your hand, and after a year of use it develops a patina that no metal part can achieve. This retrofit kit is the way to bring an existing ModBar AV to the walnut version without replacing the entire unit.
It is a conversion kit, not a wear part. Anyone who orders it has usually made a conscious decision: the machine stays, the face of the counter changes. That is why the kit plays in a different league price-wise than a knob – this is a complete assembly, not a handle off the shelf.
When it is needed
You want to convert an existing ModBar AV visually to the walnut lever. Or the existing wooden lever is damaged, cracked or bleached by cleaning agents and needs to be replaced. A third case: the counter and interior are being renovated, and the machine should match without the need for a new unit.
At a glance
| Type |
Retrofit kit for the operating lever in walnut version |
| Location |
Operating side of the ModBar AV |
| Fits |
La Marzocco ModBar AV |
| Included |
Retrofit kit according to the manufacturer's item. The individual components are not itemised in our documentation – we can ask the manufacturer for them on request. |
| Part number |
1072 |
| Version |
Walnut |
| Installation |
Installation by a qualified technician recommended |
| Brand |
La Marzocco |
Important for installation
The conversion involves the brew side of a built-in machine, and in most installations the ModBar is fixed firmly into the counter. That is why we do not provide step-by-step instructions: the machine must first be depressurised and disconnected from the power supply, and after the conversion a leak and function test is required. Plan the conversion outside service hours and have it carried out by a qualified technician – for a counter that has to be running again in the evening, that is the only sensible order.
Who it is for
For cafés, hotel bars and roasteries with a ModBar in the counter who want to change the look without touching the technology. And for service companies planning such a conversion for their customers. If you are only looking for a wear part, this is not the right place – this kit is a conversion, not a repair.
What goes with it
The ModBar 2-cup portafilter with walnut handle belongs to the same look. Often ordered at the same time for the conversion are the Drip tray grid ModBar and the Drip tray connection ModBar. All other items can be found in the Original spare parts section.
From our workshop in Bern and Zurich: We treat wooden parts on coffee machines like chopping boards, not like stainless steel: no descaler, no alcohol, no dishwasher – just wipe with a damp cloth and then wipe dry. Once a quarter a drop of food-safe oil, and the walnut stays dark and does not crack. This is our own routine and not a manufacturer's specification. To break in the machine after the conversion, we like to pull the Cozy Chocolate, because its chocolate note suits the wooden lever almost too well – or the Nutty Delight for milk drinks. The whole range can be found under Coffee beans.
No returns
Original spare parts are excluded from exchange and return. They are procured specifically for each order and cannot be resold after installation or a test fitting on the machine. So before ordering, check the model, year of manufacture and serial number of your machine – or send us a short message and we will clarify the fit together. Your rights in the event of defective goods remain unaffected.
Frequently asked questions
What exactly is included in the kit?
Our documentation lists item 1072 as a retrofit kit without listing the components individually. We do not make up a parts list. If you need it, we will ask the manufacturer for it before you order.
Does the kit fit every ModBar?
Our documentation specifies the AV version. Send us the serial number of your ModBar and we will check before purchase whether your unit is compatible.
Can I do the conversion myself?
We do not recommend it. The machine must be depressurised and disconnected from the power supply, and a leak test is required afterwards. This is work for a qualified technician.
Is a brew group or a valve included?
We make no statement on this, because our documentation does not provide it. The kit is listed as a control part in walnut version. Ask us and we will clarify the scope before you order.
Can I see the lever at your place?
Yes. Come to our showroom in Bern at Gerberngasse 44 or in Zurich at Hagenholzstrasse 50b. For a conversion of this size, it is worth taking a look beforehand anyway.
Would you like to plan the conversion? Write to us at [email protected]. We deliver across Switzerland and to Liechtenstein in 2-4 working days.
