Ken Fox wrote:The odds are 100%.

true of just about everything. all capital depreciates. we consumers too often assume (incorrectly) that fiscal purchase magnitude postively correlates with low maintenance and longevity of the item. for example, consider an aston martin dbs...

FWIW, with my machines (la cimbali) I've been told by reliable sources that the worst thing one can do for the longevity of gaskets is heating and cooling them - shortens the life span considerably especially with my M20 lever.
-Ian

Ken Fox wrote:The odds are 100%.

You misread the quote and my response. The issue was what the odds were of the o-rings being a significant issue. If they last several years in typical home use, I would rate their replacement as an insignificant issue. If six months is more typical, then it would be significant. Your particular experience notwithstanding, we just don't know at this point what the "odds are" of it being a significant issue for home users.

Marshall wrote:You misread the quote and my response. The issue was what the odds were of the o-rings being a significant issue. If they last several years in typical home use, I would rate their replacement as an insignificant issue. If six months is more typical, then it would be significant. Your particular experience notwithstanding, we just don't know at this point what the "odds are" of it being a significant issue for home users.

Significance is in the eye of the beholder?

ken

Ken Fox wrote:Significance is in the eye of the beholder?

Yes, more often than not.

Ken Fox wrote:Significance is in the eye of the beholder?

ken

Yes, but if I had to replace a part in my machine that required moderate mechanical work every six months, I would consider that painful. However, what hasn't been determined yet is what happens if you ignore the leak for years? I'm certain we will find out because there has to be users who aren't inspecting their units, hopefully they will find this site looking for answers and post their findings.

On mine GS/3 it happened about 8-9 months into the ownership. I replaced the 3 O-Rings and was really apprehensive about doing it. It turns out it is not that hard at all once you have it done at least once. I lubricated these seals later before selling machine and was able to do this in about 15 minutes start to finish.

I did not use the special tool to get rings out rather I used needle-nose pliers with each nose wrapped into the electrical tape so there is no metal exposed. Then you can insert closed pliers into the group, expanded them and pull up to get the rings and metal part out. Sounds complex, but as I said it is fairly easy once you have it done at least once...

If this is all maintenance one would need to do, it is not bad at all.

I lubricated these seals later before selling machine

Just out of curiosity, what did you replace your GS/3 with?

Could someone provide a measurement of the replacement o-rings for the paddle...thickness, inside and outside diameter?

to the OP: did you decide? just curious.