The small stainless steel screw that is always missing during a service
M3 × 12, Phillips, stainless steel. It is one of those screws that appear in several places in an espresso machine and that you are guaranteed to lose when taking it apart – it rolls under the machine, into the drip tray or into the gap between the counter and the wall.
Stainless steel is not a luxury here but a requirement: in an environment of steam, milk splashes and cleaning agents, a zinc-plated screw starts to rust within months and can no longer be undone at the next service. Part number I.1.045.
When it is due
The Phillips recess is worn and the screwdriver slips. The screw has started to rust because at some point a standard part from a DIY store was fitted. The thread no longer engages cleanly. Or it simply disappeared the last time the machine was opened and you need a replacement before the machine is closed again.
At a glance
| Type |
Screw M3 × 12, Phillips |
| Location |
Not specified – please have it confirmed via the service documentation |
| Fits |
La Marzocco, matched via the part number |
| What's included |
one screw |
| Part number |
I.1.045 |
| Version |
Stainless steel |
| Brand |
La Marzocco |
Who it is for
For workshops topping up their stock of small parts, and for anyone who is missing exactly this one screw during reassembly. As the working documents do not specify a location, it is best to order by the number or write to us and tell us where it sits.
What goes with it
More standard parts from the same family: the M3 × 8 screw for the Strada and KB90 pump head with the matching M3 nut, the M4 × 8 Phillips screw for the housing and the M4 × 6 stainless steel grub screw. The whole range: Original spare parts; all spare parts for the brand under La Marzocco accessories and spare parts.
From our workshop in Bern and Zurich
Our own routine, not a manufacturer specification: whenever we open a machine, we put a flat magnetic tray next to the counter and drop every screw straight into it. Sounds trivial, but every time it saves the quarter of an hour someone would otherwise spend lying under the base with a torch. After reassembly we pull a few shots as a check, usually with Nutty Delight. For something more chocolatey, try Cozy Chocolate; for something stronger, Very Nutty. Everything else under 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 fitted or test-fitted on a machine. So before ordering, check the model, year of manufacture and serial number of your machine – or drop us a line and we'll clarify the fit together. Your rights in the event of defective goods remain unaffected.
Where exactly does this screw go?
The documentation does not give us a specific location, and we won't make one up. Send us the serial number of your machine and describe the spot, and we'll check the number against the service documentation.
Can't I just use an M3 × 12 from a DIY store?
Mechanically, often yes, but head shape and material determine appearance and durability. In the warm, humid environment of an espresso machine, a zinc-plated screw rusts and is seized by the next service.
How many do I get for the price?
You receive one screw. If you need several, simply enter the quantity in the basket.
What head shape does it have?
The documentation mentions the Phillips drive and stainless steel as the material, nothing more. We therefore don't claim a specific head shape – on request, we'll check with the manufacturer.
Can I see the part at your shop?
Yes. Drop by in Bern at Gerberngasse 44 or in Zurich at Hagenholzstrasse 50b. Bring the old screw with you and we'll compare them together.
Questions about fit? Write to us at [email protected]. We deliver across Switzerland and to Liechtenstein in 2-4 working days.
