How to install piston gasket on Ponte Vecchio lever espresso machine

#1: Post by **eyalcpa** » March 11th, 2014, 2:48 pm

Hi All, I recently changed the gaskets on my Ponte Vecchio Export machine, but I ran into a problem when trying to use the clamp method, but I came up with a different way to release/install the piston. I hope this helps someone.

#2: Post by HB » March 11th, 2014, 3:04 pm

Ponte Vecchio Lusso piston removal - revisited offers a similar DIY solution, though some members were concerned it would damage the frame. How to Change Lusso/Export Seals: The Ponte Vecchio Way! shows the factory-approved method:

#3: Post by **peacecup** » March 11th, 2014, 4:20 pm

I used a Subaru jack like that once on my Export. Unfortunately the edge of the jack pressed itself against the group without my noticing it, and when I put pressure on it I ended up bending the cast aluminum base. Not a complete disaster, but it could have been. It's been working fine for five years since, so no lasting damage, but it still sits a little crooked now.

The factory method is probably best, because there is not force applied to other parts of the machine during installation. But it appears that the jack method can work if one is careful.

PC

#4: Post by **grog** » March 11th, 2014, 6:01 pm

The stability of the stack o' coins shim strategy is...questionable.

#5: Post by **danmc** » March 12th, 2014, 2:22 pm

I ended up using a piece of wooden dowel for my piston re-install. Worked pretty.

Dan

#6: Post by **grog** » March 12th, 2014, 2:32 pm

Hi Dan -

Did you use the dowel in conjunction with a car jack, or with a c-clamp?