The bushing that lets the steam wand move smoothly
A steam wand should swivel easily and still stay tight. On the GS3 and the Strada, one of the parts that achieves both at once is the upper Teflon bushing with part number F.1.029. Teflon glides, withstands heat and lets the wand stay in any position without sticking.
Wear shows up here slowly and day by day: the wand becomes stiff or, on the contrary, too loose, it no longer holds its position, and the mount starts to get damp. At the latest when a drop hangs at the base of the wand after frothing, the bushing needs to be looked at.
When it is due
The wand sticks when swivelling or suddenly has play. It no longer stays where you put it. Moisture appears at the base of the wand. The removed bushing is worn in, deformed or torn. Or the wand is being overhauled anyway – then the bushing is one of the parts you replace at the same time.
At a glance
| Type |
Bushing, sliding and sealing element |
| Location |
upper steam wand mount |
| Fits |
La Marzocco GS3 and Strada |
| Scope of delivery |
one bushing |
| Part number |
F.1.029 |
| Design |
Teflon; the manufacturer specifications do not state dimensions |
| Installation |
Installation by a specialist recommended |
| Brand |
La Marzocco |
Important for installation
The bushing sits at a steam-carrying, pressurised point that gets very hot at operating temperature. Switching off the machine, disconnecting it from the mains, letting it cool down and depressurising it is a prerequisite. We deliberately do not give step-by-step instructions here. Teflon parts are not reused once they have been compressed.
Who it is for
For bars whose wand no longer runs smoothly, and for technicians opening a steam assembly. If you make a lot of milk drinks, keep the bushing in stock together with the other gaskets – it costs little and saves a shift.
What goes with it
The wands themselves are the non-insulated steam wand GS3 and the Pro-Touch treated wand, held by the holder A.5.006. For resealing, there are the Service Kit SA210.K and the repair kit SA309.R. Everything else can be found under GS3 spare parts and Strada spare parts.
From our workshop in Bern and Zurich: We wipe the wand after every jug and purge briefly – not just because of the milk, but because dried milk residue at the base of the wand migrates straight into the bushing and wears it out prematurely. This is our own routine, not a manufacturer requirement. As a check after the replacement, we froth a jug and drink the cappuccino right away, usually made with Cozy Chocolate or Nutty Delight. If you like it stronger, go for Very Nutty; the full selection is under Coffee beans.
No returns
Original spare parts are excluded from exchange and return. They are sourced to 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 drop us a line and we will clarify the fit together. Your rights in the case of defective goods remain unaffected.
Frequently asked questions
What does “upper” mean for this bushing?
The manufacturer specifications list it as the upper bushing of the steam wand mount. The other sliding and sealing elements of the same assembly are separate items; ask us if you need the complete set.
Is the steam wand included?
No. Only the bushing F.1.029 is supplied. The wands are linked above.
Does it fit a Linea Mini or Micra?
The manufacturer specifications name GS3 and Strada. Other model series have a different assembly. Send us the serial number and we will check it.
What are the dimensions of the bushing?
The manufacturer specifications do not state any, and we do not make any up. The number F.1.029 is what counts.
Can I see and pick up the part at your Showroom?
Yes. We are in Bern at Gerberngasse 44 and in Zurich at Hagenholzstrasse 50b. Let us know in advance and it 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.
