Hello,

I just purchased an old 1960's Riviera Espresso machine, everything appears present etc. it was sold to me as working , however when i plug it in and turn on the red switch , it begins heating, after a few minutes water starts spurting out of the plunger column through a small hole behind the lever arm, which is guess is a pressure escape hole. I would REALLY appreciate any advice as to this problem, the coffee obviously comes , however the hot water streams out of this hole. Do you think it is just seals or what?

Its probably the top seal.

I assume it is a spring lever? Photo would help. You'll probably need all new piston seals and a group seal. Can be had from orphanespresso in USA if not locally. Check out their website in any case - lots of good info.

DON'T take the piston assembly apart withough careful planning - the spring in under tension and will eject the piston. You need a clamp of some sort to slowly release it.

Capable of making great espresso once you get it sorted out!

PC

Thankyou sooooooooo much, Yes I will order new seals. Love the look of the machine