The older seal on the ball head – while stocks last
This part is a discontinued item. The manufacturer has replaced it with a newer number, and we continue to stock it for as long as our supply lasts. That is not a drawback but a relief for anyone servicing an older machine whose service documentation still lists exactly this number: you don't have to guess whether the successor fits your valve body – you get the part that is documented there.
The ring seals the ball head of the steam valve, exactly where movement and steam meet every time you open it. When it wears out, the valve hisses or drips even when closed – and the steam tap feels different from usual when you turn it.
When it's due
The steam valve doesn't stay tight with the tap closed. The tap turns stiffly or feels clunkier than usual. A limescale trace appears on the valve. Or your service documentation lists H.1.003 and you want to replace the part before the stock runs out.
At a glance
| Type |
O-ring |
| Installation location |
Ball head of the steam valve |
| Fits |
Order by part number; our documentation does not name a specific model |
| Scope of delivery |
1 O-ring, without ball head and without valve |
| Part number |
H.1.003 |
| Specification |
Cross-section 2.62 mm, inner diameter 13.1 mm; our documentation does not state the material. Discontinued item, while stocks last; successor is H.1.044 |
| Installation |
Installation by a qualified technician recommended |
| Brand |
La Marzocco |
Important for installation
Only work on the steam valve when the machine has cooled down and is depressurised. We deliberately don't give step-by-step instructions here – the valve body has to be dismantled, and the order of reassembly determines whether the tap closes cleanly afterwards. After installation, a leak test during operation is part of the job. If in doubt: workshop.
Who it's for
For owners and service companies of older machines whose documentation still lists the old number. If you look after several machines of the same year of manufacture, it's worth stocking up now instead of switching to the successor later.
What goes with it
The successor part is the PTFE O-ring 2.62 × 12.37 mm for the ball head – different number, different size, so check your documentation before ordering. Complete assemblies are the KB90 E16 H15 steam valve and the steam tap for Linea PB and GB5. More seals can be found in the Original spare parts section.
From our workshop in Bern and Zurich: For discontinued items, we note in the customer file which successor number applies – on the very day we install the old part. At the next service, nobody has to search for a number that no longer exists. This is our own routine, not a manufacturer requirement. We do the milk test after a steam valve repair with Nutty Delight, because in a cappuccino it honestly shows whether the steam comes out dry. If you'd rather cross-check with a black coffee: Very Nutty, and the full range is 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 once they have been installed or test-fitted on a machine. So before ordering, check your machine's model, year of manufacture and serial number – or drop us a quick message and we'll clarify the fit together. Your rights in the case of defective goods remain unaffected.
Frequently asked questions
Why does it say discontinued item here?
Because the manufacturer has replaced this part with a newer one. We supply it for as long as our stock lasts, and we say so openly instead of keeping quiet about it.
Should I just take the successor right away?
If your documentation lists H.1.044, yes. If it lists H.1.003, order this part. The dimensions differ.
What material is the ring made of?
Our documentation does not state the material for this part, and we don't add it based on guesswork. On request, we'll ask the manufacturer.
Is the ball head included?
No. Only the O-ring is supplied, without ball head and without valve.
Can I see the part at your place?
Yes. Come to our showroom in Bern at Gerberngasse 44 or in Zurich at Hagenholzstrasse 50b. Bring the old ring or the valve with you and we'll compare them directly.
Not sure whether you need the old or the new number? Write to us at [email protected]. We deliver across Switzerland and to Liechtenstein in 2-4 working days.
