Well, I do have a question. When I first got my Caravel 1.0/220v, using the above technique more or less, I'd get about 1 oz (29ml) nearly solid crema, using the Sette. Recently,using the same grinder and coffee, I'm getting about 22 ml, and 1/3 the crema. The pulls "feel" about the same, but I do notice occasional droplets of water emanating from just behind the group, sliding down the body. I've assumed this is condensation, but I wonder if that tiny little "cup" gasket might be shredded? I have had a couple of hard pull downs, with fairly substantial resistance prior to these recent attempts. Thanks in advance, my friends!

I notice those kind of drops when using a paper filter... So perhaps the gasket needs love - can you not take a look with it disassembled for visual indicatons?

IMAWriter wrote:Well, I do have a question. When I first got my Caravel 1.0/220v, using the above technique more or less, I'd get about 1 oz (29ml) nearly solid crema, using the Sette. Recently,using the same grinder and coffee, I'm getting about 22 ml, and 1/3 the crema. The pulls "feel" about the same, but I do notice occasional droplets of water emanating from just behind the group, sliding down the body. I've assumed this is condensation, but I wonder if that tiny little "cup" gasket might be shredded? I have had a couple of hard pull downs, with fairly substantial resistance prior to these recent attempts. Thanks in advance, my friends!

Coffee changes as it ages, which I'm sure you are aware of. The little "cup" gasket ? Are you referring to the PF gasket, the two piston seals or the tiny anti-siphon seal at the bottom of the piston ?
I do notice something similar with a grind that is too fine or over tamped basket but it clears up on subsequent pulls once the grind/tamp are correct.

Have enjoyed reading about this cool machine. I did not read the entire thread so forgive me if this has been posted, but there is one up for sale on ebay right now.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/like/3914623109 ... noapp=true

Rob, I've noticed water leaking from the lever insertion holes in the group - when the lever is raised fully if the top seal is faulty water will get past it on come over those slots where the lever inserts into the piston mechanism. I guess that would leave less water under the piston face for the shot, so reduction in volume. It might also come from the little o-ring, but I don't see how that water could easily escape over the piston and into the chamber?

All great stuff. This morning, I finally took her COMPLETELY apart. Amazing! I'd had previously it down to the element, and had the group screen off, but had never pulled the piston, as it was just sent to me a few months ago by Francesco. Since then , I had cleaned the screen twice...pretty much it was clean. THIS time however, it was pretty dark, so I soaked in Cafiza and gently brushed clean. All the holes clear. I pulled the piston...ridiculously simple, even for a numb-nuts like me. The piston seems dry, so I Dow 111'd it lightly, and a wee bit inside the group walls, as I did with my former Strega. Replaced all...amazing, no leftover parts!

Just pulling hot water through (no PF I could immediately feel a difference...smooth as silk, no catching. Ground 12 grams of 5 day old Pamana Elida DP in the Sette. Same setting. Doing the pull technique I described, a full 29ml (one ounce with crema), delicious. I don't expect, nor need monster crema with the Caravel. I like the sweetness.
I believe the 110 element was sent out today. Thanks for all your help!!!


EDIT: The only thing I didn't do was remove that circlip that probably allows access to the little cup gasket. Too nervous about that! haha

On my Caravel 1.0, I've found that the lid moves slightly up when I lift the lever for the shot. Sometimes there is condensation that drips down, even if I press the lid back into place prior to lowering the lever. I am not sure why you are experiencing less crema and shot volume than before. I don't think failure of the small o-ring inside the piston would lead to that, though.

In a pinch if you are ever out of the Dow lube I found coconut oil works for easing in piston back into group/kettle.
I've also ordered a few 110v elements from Brooks for my VAM / Caravel to see if it will expedite my current for sale Caravel.

grog wrote:On my Caravel 1.0, I've found that the lid moves slightly up when I lift the lever for the shot. Sometimes there is condensation that drips down, even if I press the lid back into place prior to lowering the lever. I am not sure why you are experiencing less crema and shot volume than before. I don't think failure of the small o-ring inside the piston would lead to that, though.

If I'm at the correct grind, thankfully the lock on the back keeps my kettle really secure.

New 110v element for my VAM. Got two from Brooks along with other items.
The element is round and starts of silver in colour and darkens after first use.