I'm going to look at a 25 yeqr old Cremina tomorrow. What should I be looking for? I've read the thread on refurbishing a Cremina, but I doubt that the vendor will be keen on me taking the whole machine apart

I also don't know whether the vendor knows how to operate the machine/is willing to run it. I do have the basic operating instructions from the 1st-line site.

Thanks.

Hi erics,

Thanks a lot for that. Being in New York, it will be easy for me to have this gentleman look at the machine, and well worth the peace of mind.

I'd bring an adjustable wrench or larger pair of pliers that will open to 1 3/16". Unscrew the boiler cap and unscrew the nut below it. The top cover will lift off and the case also. Put some water in the boiler, replace boiler cap only and turn it on. It should heat up and then look for leaks. It's most likely some or all of the gaskets could use replacing but make sure no water is leaking from any cracks in boiler or the long metal channel/bar running across the top. Look for amount of rust in that area also. The wires and terminal block to look in reasonable condition. A decent seller should allow you to do this. Shut off the machine and open the steam knob with a cup under it until the pressure is down then you can open the boiler cap and put it back together.
Look at the oval slot where the lever fork pivots for noticeable wear.
Unless the owner knows the gaskets and o-rings have been replaced recently I would recommend a disassembly complete cleaning and gaskets/o-rings replacement. Doug @ Orphan Espresso has all the parts and instructions to do so. I've heard there is a shop in NYC that works on Creminas or it could be sent to Doug. What is the asking price and described condition if you don't mind saying? Unless it's mint it should be in the $500.-$900. range, depending.
good luck!!!

Ed,

Thanks very much for that. I'll bring some tools and will ask to do the tests that you suggest. The condition is unclear, but I should know more tomorrow morning. You should now have a response to your helpful PM on the issues of condition/price.

Cheers