The spring that lets the steam valve close reliably
A small spring works on the steam valve spindle. It makes sure the valve returns cleanly to its seat when the barista releases or closes the handle. As long as it keeps its force, nobody thinks about it. In the service documentation it is listed under part number F.3.005.01.
When it tires – and springs in the steam path do tire, because they constantly swing between hot and cold –, the valve closes more sluggishly. Then it drips afterwards, the steam tap feels soft, and at some point a fine thread of steam keeps escaping that you only hear when the bar is quiet.
When it's due
The valve keeps dripping after closing. The handle feels soft or spongy. The spring is visibly corroded, scaled or deformed. Or the valve is being overhauled anyway – in that case an old spring does not belong back in the assembly, because its force cannot be judged from the outside.
At a glance
| Type |
Spring |
| Location |
Steam valve spindle |
| Fits |
La Marzocco. The service documentation names no machine model – send us the serial number and we will check the fit. |
| Scope of delivery |
One spring |
| Part number |
F.3.005.01 |
| Version |
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 in a valve that carries steam. Work is done on a depressurised, cooled-down machine. We deliberately do not give step-by-step instructions here. If the valve is open anyway, replace the gaskets and O-ring of the spindle at the same time – opening it a second time for a part costing a few francs is never worth it.
Who it is for
For service companies that overhaul La Marzocco steam valves, and for businesses that keep a small stock of wear parts.
What goes with it
The same spindle also takes the O-ring for the steam valve spindle. This spring should not be confused with the steam wand seal spring F.3.004 and the spring for the ModBar steam valve – three different positions. More under Accessories and spare parts La Marzocco and Original spare parts.
From our workshop
With us in Bern and Zurich, removed springs end up side by side on a sheet of paper, old next to new. A fatigued spring is five to ten percent longer or shorter than the new one – you see that immediately in a direct comparison, and not at all with the naked eye. This is our routine, not a manufacturer's specification. Afterwards we test at the milk jug, and the cappuccino runs on Nutty Delight. More chocolatey with Cozy Chocolate, stronger with Very Nutty; everything else 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 test fitting on the machine. So before ordering, check the model, year of manufacture and serial number of your machine – or drop us a short message and we will clarify the fit together. Your rights in the case of defective goods remain unaffected.
Frequently asked questions
Is this the spring from the steam wand?
No. The steam wand seal spring is listed under F.3.004. This one sits on the valve spindle and has the number F.3.005.01.
Which machine is it for?
The service documentation does not name a model. Send us the serial number and the position from your drawing, and we will check the fit.
My steam tap drips. Is the spring enough?
Not always. Often the gasket and valve seat are involved too. If the valve is open anyway, you replace both together.
What are the dimensions of the spring?
We have no information on that, and we don't guess here. Order by the number F.3.005.01.
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 short message beforehand and we will 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.
