The seal that keeps the paddle running smoothly
A paddle group depends on a shaft moving while the water stays inside. Sealing rings do this job, and this is one of them. Unlike a static ring on a threaded fitting, it works under movement – and therefore wears out faster. That is not a design weakness but the normal course of things.
You notice it first on the paddle itself: it becomes stiff because the ring has hardened, or it moves more clumsily than usual and water comes out of the group where there normally is none. Both are signals that baristas notice before the technician does – because the hand knows the difference.
When it's due
The paddle moves stiffly, judders or has become noticeably light. Water leaks from the group housing. After a shot, the group keeps dripping for longer than usual. When opened, the ring is hard, flattened or notched.
At a glance
| Type |
EPDM O-ring |
| Location |
Paddle group |
| Fits |
La Marzocco machines with paddle group; our documentation does not name a specific model, so it's best to order by number |
| Scope of delivery |
1 O-ring |
| Part number |
H.1.011.01 |
| Version |
Size designation 110, EPDM, hardness 70 ShA |
| Installation |
Installation by a qualified technician recommended |
| Brand |
La Marzocco |
Important for installation
The paddle group carries brewing water under pressure. It is only opened on a machine that has cooled down and is depressurised, and after reassembly a test shot while watching the group is part of the job. We deliberately don't give step-by-step instructions here: anyone who tilts the shaft or pulls the ring over a sharp edge will already have damaged the new seal by the first shot. Have the work done by a qualified technician – they also know the order of the other rings in the group.
Who it's for
For workshops overhauling a paddle group, and for businesses that deliberately keep the set of seals in stock as wear parts. If you love your paddle, this is the part that keeps it smooth – and it costs less than a kilo of coffee.
What goes with it
The same assembly also includes the O-ring 137 for the paddle group and the spacer for the paddle group. The heart of the control system is the GS3 MP Paddle brew head valve. All parts for the machine are listed in the section La Marzocco GS3 spare parts, and all the small parts in the section Original spare parts.
From our workshop in Bern and Zurich: When we open a paddle group, we never replace just the one ring that is obviously worn out, but all the seals in the group in one go. The others are just as old, and opening the group a second time costs more than the material. This is our own routine, not a manufacturer requirement. Afterwards, we run in the group with Nutty Delight, because with it you can clearly hear and taste whether the pressure builds up evenly again. Then, at the end of the working day, Cozy Chocolate; everything else is in 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 installed or test-fitted on a machine. So before ordering, check your machine's model, year of manufacture and serial number – 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
Does the ring fit my GS3 or Linea Mini?
Our documentation names the paddle group but no specific machine model. That's why we don't give any model reference here that we can't back up. Send us the serial number and we'll check it before you order.
Do I need several rings?
In a paddle group, several seals of different sizes work together. Tell us which overhaul you're planning and we'll put together the right parts.
Is it the same ring as the O-ring 137?
No. These are two different parts with different numbers and dimensions, even though both belong to the paddle group.
My paddle is stiff. Is a new ring enough?
Often yes, but sometimes limescale or a damaged shaft is behind it. The ring is the cheapest first step, but no guarantee.
Can I see the part at your place?
Yes. Come to our showroom in Bern at Gerberngasse 44 or in Zurich at Hagenholzstrasse 50b. Bring the removed rings with you and we'll sort them together.
Want to put together a complete group overhaul? Write to us at [email protected]. We deliver across Switzerland and to Liechtenstein in 2-4 working days.
