Source for Torx Security Wrenches

[mcpilot]

Here is a source for the Torx security wrench to get the base off of the Gaggia Factory... This makes the job much easier...
http://www.telephoneparts.com/index.cgi?pcode=800-052


Also Sears sells them in their stores as well....

[ntwkgestapo]

Just to let you know, MY Gaggia Factory came with a "tamper proof" Torx (a Torx 20H, has a small "post" in the center of the Torx socket. Requires a special Torx driver. I had one so no problem)..

[mcpilot]

They all come with that screw. The link above is for that special wrench that will fit the special screw....

The wrenches have a hole in the center to accommodate...

[ntwkgestapo]

I understand, BUT, A STANDARD T-20 Torx does NOT have the post (nor does the bit have the corresponding hole!). A "Tamper Proof" Torx has the post and the bit has the appropriate hole)...

[HairyCannonball]

Thats why mcpilot said Torx "security"

[Spresso_Bean]

If you have a Harbor Freight near you, they sell a few different size security bit sets and they're inexpensive. They're specifically for the security fasteners and contain many types, not just the Torx so it's a nice set to have. I bought a 33 piece set and it was maybe $3. When I took my Gaggia apart I didn't have this set, so I just used a very small screwdriver to break off the little center post and then I was able to just use a regular Torx bit. Not the best way to do it, but it worked.

[ntwkgestapo]

Yeah, I've got the same set that Harbor Freight sells (bought it from a different retailer years ago). Works QUITE well.

[RapidCoffee]

Any halfway-decent hardware store should carry Torx security bits. I found this one at a local Hardware Hank's. Why Pavoni and Gaggia went with the security post is beyond me.

[RAS]

Another great place to get tools such as these, and many others, is from Wiha - a very high-quality German tool manufacturer. Their website is... http://www.wihatools.com. They make the best "tweaker" type screwdrivers I've ever used. Security torx (or torx-post) comes in many flavors on the website.

[cannonfodder]

Use a small standard screwdriver, you can wedge the blade between the star points with the blade resting on one side of the center post and then unscrew it. Just be careful and you will not bugger up the torx bit. I have taken my apart more than a few times.