My Silvia is modified with an Auber PID and a pressure gauge. This morning it developed a fault. I can no long pull a proper brew. Over the course of a 25 second pull the pressure stays at or below 1-2bar rather than the normal 9 bar.
If I fit a blind portafilter the pressure stays low for at least 15 seconds before starting to climb and finally reaching 9 bar.
The flow rate from the pump looks good when no portafilter is attached.
There in no water coming from the pressure relief pipe in the water reservoir until the pressure reached 9bar.
Any ideas what the problem could be?
Thanks!

Pump going out???

How much espresso are you getting in 25 seconds when the pressure is 1-2 bar?

Jim

Approx 1/3 of a normal pull

Always check the water path first. Check the flow rate through the steam wand using the hot water switch vs. the rate through the group using the brew switch. If they're equal you probably need a new pump, if they're not the problem's in the solenoid valve.


Alan

I get 195ml from a 30sec run from the group head and 205ml for the same through the steam wand.
Pump you think?

Hi PaperPig
I've just ordered an internal pressure gauge kit from Pidsilvia.
Now i've read your post I'm thinking twice about installing it.
Do you think it's worth the aggro given your experience and how's your Silvia doing?


Cheers!

I replaced the pump in my Silvia and it is now working fine. I think that the pump failed through normal wear and tear. I would go ahead with the pressure mod, ~I'm sure it'll be fine! I have pictures of my pressure gauge mod and pid mod here if you are interested.

Hi
Thanks for the reply. Great pics Nice set up you got there!

awesome!!