The spring that keeps the steam wand movable yet sealed
A steam wand should swivel freely and at the same time stay sealed to the outside. That is a contradiction a small spring resolves: it presses the sealing element against the wand, evenly and with just enough force that the wand still swivels easily. In the service documentation it is listed under part number F.3.004.
When the spring force weakens, it shows at the base of the wand: a fine veil of steam escapes, a limescale ring forms, and over time the wand becomes wobbly. If you then replace only the gasket, the problem will be back within a few weeks.
When it's due
Steam escapes at the base of the steam wand, or a limescale rim forms. The wand has play and moves too easily. The spring is corroded, scaled up or visibly sagged. Or the wand is being overhauled anyway – then the spring belongs on the parts list, because its force cannot be judged from the outside.
At a glance
| Type |
Gasket spring |
| Location |
Steam wand |
| Fits |
La Marzocco. The service documentation does not name a machine model – send us the serial number and we'll check the fit. |
| Included |
One spring |
| Part number |
F.3.004 |
| Specification |
The service documentation does not state dimensions or material. We make no claims here. |
| Brand |
La Marzocco |
| Installation |
Installation by a qualified technician recommended |
Important for installation
The spring sits on an assembly that carries steam at boiler pressure. Work is done on a depressurised, cooled-down machine. We deliberately do not give step-by-step instructions here. From experience: spring and gasket should be replaced together – fitting a new spring onto a worn gasket only brings short-lived relief.
Who it's for
For service companies that overhaul steam wands, and for businesses where a limescale ring keeps growing back at the base of the wand.
What goes with it
The same assembly includes the PTFE gasket for the steam wand. We carry complete sets as the Steam and hot water wand repair kit GS3 and the Steam wand repair set ModBar. This spring is not to be confused with the steam valve shaft spring F.3.005.01. More under Original spare parts.
From our workshop
At our shops in Bern and Zurich, the simplest test for a tired wand spring is the swivel test on a cold machine: if you can push the wand around with two fingers without any resistance, the preload is no longer right. That is our routine, not a manufacturer specification. After the service, the first milk foam goes into a cappuccino with Nutty Delight, more chocolatey with Cozy Chocolate, stronger with Very Nutty; everything else under Coffee beans.
No returns
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 quick message and we'll clarify the fit together. Your rights in the case of defective goods remain unaffected.
Frequently asked questions
Is this the spring from the steam valve?
No. The steam valve shaft spring is listed under F.3.005.01. This one belongs to the steam wand and has the number F.3.004.
Do I need the gasket as well?
We recommend it. Spring and gasket work together; if you replace only one, you usually end up doing the job twice.
Which machine does it fit?
The service documentation does not name a model. Send us the serial number and the position from your drawing, and we'll check.
My wand wobbles. Is the spring enough?
Often yes, but not always. If the guide is also worn, it needs a look too.
Can I pick up the part at your showroom?
Yes. We are in Bern at Gerberngasse 44 and in Zurich at Hagenholzstrasse 50b. Drop us a quick message beforehand and we'll have the part ready.
Questions about the fit? Write to us at [email protected]. We deliver across Switzerland and to Liechtenstein in 2-4 working days.
