The small part inside the steam tap
On the steam tap, half a millimetre decides how frothing feels: whether the lever stays where you put it or creeps back ever so slightly. Responsible for this are a few small plastic and sealing parts inside the tap – parts you never see during operation and whose wear first shows up as play.
This part is one of them. Our documents list it as a wiper for the steam tap in the Swan-Neck version and state neither the material nor the dimensions nor the model series on which this tap is fitted. That is why we don't write here what exactly the part seals or guides – anyone ordering it should have the number from their machine's service document or send us a photo of the installation point.
When it's due
The steam lever is noticeably loose or moves out of its position by itself. It can be moved beyond the stop. Steam or water still escapes from the tap body after shutting off, even though the lever is closed. Or the workshop has opened the tap and found a worn or broken small part while dismantling it.
At a glance
| Type |
Wiper for the steam tap |
| Installation location |
inside the steam tap |
| Fits |
La Marzocco steam tap in the Swan-Neck version; our documents do not name the model series |
| Scope of delivery |
one wiper |
| Specification |
Material, dimensions and the exact function in the tap are not specified in our documents |
| Installation |
Installation by a qualified professional recommended |
| Brand |
La Marzocco |
Important for installation
The steam tap sits on the steam boiler and carries steam at boiler temperature. The machine must be unplugged, completely cooled down and depressurised before the tap is opened – there is still residual pressure in the boiler even hours after switching off, and a loosened threaded connection will then release hot water, not steam. Small parts in the tap are not bent back into shape, shimmed or fixed with sealant; either the part fits or it is the wrong one. We deliberately do not provide step-by-step instructions here.
Who it's for
For workshops and for technically skilled owners who are dismantling the steam tap anyway and replacing the small parts in the process. If you've only noticed a loose lever and don't know the cause, a short message to us will serve you better than an order on suspicion – the steam tap contains several parts that cause the same symptom.
What goes with it
Other parts around the steam tap in the catalogue: the pin bushing for the GS3 steam tap, the counter plate for the GS3 steam tap, the bushing for the LEVA steam tap, the steam tap for Linea PB and GB5 and the rotary knob for the Linea PB steam tap.
Further along the steam path you'll find the upper Teflon bushing on the steam wand, the Teflon insert for the GS3 water tap and the steam wand holder. Everything else can be found in our Service parts and in La Marzocco accessories and spare parts; for caring for the wand, see machine and grinder cleaning.
From our workshop in Bern and Zurich
When a steam lever has play, we dismantle the tap completely and lay out all the small parts in order on a white cloth – that way you can see which part stands out, instead of replacing one after another. That's our routine in Bern and Zurich, not a manufacturer specification. For the test shot afterwards we use Cozy Chocolate or Nutty Delight, and for maximum body without acidity Very Nutty. More in our coffee beans.
Returns excluded
Service parts are excluded from exchange and return. They are procured specifically for each order and cannot be resold after installation or a trial fitting on the machine. So before ordering, check the model, year of manufacture and serial number of your machine – or drop us a quick line and we'll clarify the fit together. Your rights in the event of defective goods remain unaffected.
Frequently asked questions
What exactly does this wiper do in the steam tap?
Our documents only give the designation «Wiper for Swan-Neck steam tap», not the function and not the installation position. So we don't describe anything here that we can't back up. Send us a photo of the dismantled tap and we'll compare.
Which machines is this steam tap fitted to?
According to the item name, the version is called Swan-Neck. Our documents don't say which model series carry it. Send us the model, year of manufacture and serial number and we'll check the fit.
Is there a part number for it?
No. None of our documents gives a part number for this part, and we won't make one up here. If you have a number from a service document, send it to us.
Can I install the part myself?
We recommend installation by a qualified professional. The tap sits on the steam boiler, and the boiler is still under pressure even hours after switching off.
Can I see the part in your showroom?
Yes. We're in Bern at Gerberngasse 44 and in Zurich at Hagenholzstrasse 50b. Let us know shortly beforehand and we'll have the part 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.
