I'm new to this forum, so please forgive me if I don't know how to post... I searched the forum before writing this post but was not able to find anything pertinent.

I just purchased a used Bezzera 2005 BZ40R, I connected it to a water tap with adequate water pressure and plugged it in. When I first turned the machine on the pump ran for a few seconds then the heating element started. It got up to pressure and I was able to get steam and water to come out. At this point the pump started coming on and off intermittently for a few seconds at a time, I proceeded to pour hot water to get the water circulating then both amber and green lights turned off and the pump started and would never stop. I shut it down for fear of burning out the pump and let it cool overnight.

Now it powers up, but the pump runs continuously, no green or amber light - I checked the water supply and there is normal water pressure at the intake. I thought maybe water might not be reaching the boiler. I tried to trouble shoot it myself, but I don't know enough about espresso machines. I removed and checked both water level probes on the top of the boiler and they didn't have excessive mineral scale.

I suppose I want to make sure water is getting to the boiler first. Does anyone know how I should proceed with my troubleshooting?

Do you have any manuals that came with the machine? What is the history of this machine?

A parts manual is available from the Bezzera website: http://www.bezzera.it/index.php?lang=en

Do you have various dosage buttons on your front panel (automatic machine) or is there just a single button/switch to activate the dosage function? (semi-automatic) ?

You (very likely) have two water level probes on the top of the boiler. One is the normal level probe (the shorter one) and the other is a safety probe. Water must cover the safety probe in order to allow the machine to fully function so it seems as though water IS NOT getting into the boiler. Hence, both lights are off.

The boiler fill solenoid coil may be "dead" or the valve itself stuck in the closed position. Time to roll up your sleeves , undress the machine, and take some pics. If you have a rough time posting the pics (after some effort), send them to me and I will post same.

Thanks for your response Erics. I've removed all panels and I've rolled up my sleeves...
I believe this is the fill-solenoid. I disconnected the line going left and up to boiler and turned the machine on and with the pump pumping like no tomorrow - I get no water... aha. I also loosened the output of the pump and water starts to seep out even with everything shut-off - now what?

I don't have a schematic diagram, just the parts manual. No knowledge of history - bought second hand. Should the valve be normally off or on? Any way of testing the solenoid valve to see if it's working properly?

I would disconnect the pump electrically - should be a "pull apart" connection. Now turn the machine on and, with your fingers on the solenoid coil, try to sense if it is getting power. You should hear/feel a click from the valve that gets actuated by the solenoid coil.

Hopefully you will "feel" an attempt at activation. Post the results.

Send an email to Bezzera and request an owner's manual for your specific machine/model number/serial number. They are usually very responsive.

Unplugged the pump and turned power on. Solenoid clicks.

Good, that's a big plus. OK, shut the water supply off and grab a roll of paper towels.



Loosen/remove the speed nut on top of the coil and remove the coil. You should see a hex at the bottom. Unscrew this hex and soak all those parts (not the coil) in some white vinegar for about 30 minutes. Rinse and reinstall. You should not need to disconnect any wiring.

The little hole (~ 1/32") you see after you remove the hex should be clear as it leads to the boiler.

Pulled the solenoid off - four philips at bottom of shaft, do you want me to remove the screws and soak everything - except electrical stuff.

Yes. Inspect first for freedom of movement and then soak as a maintenance item and perhaps cure.

In addition, the below pic points to a check valve which could also be stuck closed. Disassemble, inspect, and soak as previously detailed unless you find something obvious with the fill solenoid valve.

Erics,

Thanks for your help...