La Marzocco Steam Kit Left for the Strada AV – the side where the milk comes to life
On the Strada, steam is no side show. If you are pulling cappuccino after cappuccino at peak hour, you notice right away when one side no longer delivers what it should: the jet becomes unsteady, the valve is stiff to close, or it keeps hissing quietly even though it is shut.
This assembly sits on the left side of the machine and is listed by the manufacturer as a complete kit. If more than one single part of the steam valve assembly is worn, a kit is usually the cleaner route than three parts one after the other – the machine is then out of action only once.
Descale first, then replace
Before you replace a steam valve assembly, descaling is almost always worthwhile. Limescale in the steam path causes exactly the symptoms people blame on a faulty valve: an unsteady jet, lower output, a valve that no longer closes cleanly. Take a look at our machine and grinder cleaning range, for example the descaler. If the problem remains after descaling, replacement is the right step.
When it is due
When the valve keeps dripping or hissing after closing, when it has become stiff or can no longer be finely controlled, when steam escapes from the valve assembly where it does not belong, or when the jet stays unsteady even after thorough descaling.
Left or right?
The two sides are not the same part. This kit is the left side with part number 990-VSX. The opposite side is the Steam Kit Right for the Strada AV with number 990-VDX. If you are unsure which side you need: look at the machine from the front, from where the barista stands.
At a glance
| Type |
Steam kit, steam valve assembly |
| Installation position |
Left steam side |
| Fits |
La Marzocco Strada AV |
| Scope of delivery |
one kit as supplied by the manufacturer |
| Part number |
990-VSX |
| Version |
left side |
| Installation |
Installation by a qualified technician recommended |
| Brand |
La Marzocco |
Important for installation
The steam valve assembly is connected directly to the steam boiler. Before any work, the machine must be disconnected from power, completely depressurised and cooled down – residual pressure in the steam boiler is the most common cause of scalding during service work. We deliberately do not publish step-by-step instructions for this part. Have the replacement done by a qualified technician or write to us and we will arrange it through our service.
Who it is for
For service companies overhauling a Strada AV, and for cafés where the left steam side no longer works reliably and who want to have the part ready before the service appointment.
What goes with it
The opposite side is the Steam Kit Right. On the same machine you will find the group channel and the group pump gasket set. Everything else under La Marzocco Strada spare parts and Service parts.
Tip from our bar
We rinse the steam wand briefly after every pitcher change and wipe it with a separate cloth reserved only for that. Milk that dries onto the hot tube can later only be removed by force – and force is exactly what shortens the life of a steam valve assembly. This is our routine from Bern and Zurich, not a manufacturer specification. For tasting the milk we like to use Nutty Delight, for chocolatey notes Cozy Chocolate, for body Very Nutty. All roasts under Coffee beans.
No returns
Service parts are excluded from exchange and return. They are sourced specifically for each order and cannot be resold after installation or a test fit 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
Which individual parts are in the kit?
The scope of delivery corresponds to the manufacturer kit 990-VSX. If you need the exact parts list before ordering, write to us – we will check with the manufacturer.
Is this an electrical assembly?
By our classification, this is a mechanical steam valve assembly. We do not sell solenoid valves or electrical Autosteam components online. If your Strada has an Autosteam fitted, send us the serial number before ordering.
Do I need left and right together?
Not necessarily. Replace the side that is causing problems. If both sides are in a similarly aged condition, it is often still worthwhile, because the machine is then out of action only once.
Couldn't descaling help after all?
Very often, yes. Limescale in the steam path causes the same symptoms. Descale thoroughly first – if the fault remains, replacement is right.
Can I see the part in the showroom?
Our showrooms in Bern (Gerberngasse 44) and Zurich (Hagenholzstrasse 50b) show a wide selection, but not our entire range – the display changes. Drop us a quick line at [email protected] before your visit, and we will check whether the product you have in mind is currently there.
Questions? Write to [email protected]. Delivery across Switzerland and to Liechtenstein in 2-4 working days.
