I don't think a chopstick is the right tool for the job. I decided to just replace the seals when I had mine apart yesterday as they'd been in there for quite some time. I was able to install two with my fingers & the other two required a thin flat blade screwdriver to pry them over the piston ridges.

I don't see the Loreal #4 available in the U.S. but the Haynes food grade silicone grease might be worth a try if the 111 isn't working for you. I ordered a tube of the Haynes to compare it to the Dow Molykote. I assume that you used the 111 on the Cafelat seals? It will be interesting to see what kind of life you get out of those seals.

JohnB. wrote:I don't think a chopstick is the right tool for the job.

I agree. It is the only thing I had laying around that I was sure would not damage the piston. Paul (cafelat youtube channel) made a nice video on removing and installing lever piston seals where he uses a blunt prying tool that is curved. I'll look for one of those.

Yes, I used Molykote 111 on the Cafelat seals. I'll report back in a couple months on how the seals are working and whether I think a regrease is needed. So far the Cafelat seals are working great. No noise, smooth operation, and no need to brace the machine while pulling the lever.

Forgot to mention that I find it's much easier to change the piston seals with the piston removed from the lever assy. I use a folding pin wrench or Face Spanner as Gedore calls them to break the piston loose & retighten it. Once loose you can unscrew the piston by hand. The piston end of the rod has a 2" long threaded section so all spring pressure is relieved well before the piston fully unscrews. When breaking it loose always check to make sure that only the piston is turning, not the entire rod. You don't want the rod unscrewing from the upper lever assy.