Chanty Senior Member Joined: 26 May 2005 Posts: 140 Location: Milwaukee, WI Expertise: I love coffee
Espresso: Gaggia Classic Grinder: Vario, had an MDF Vac Pot: none Drip: none Roaster: I buy beans from many...
Posted Sat Jan 12, 2013, 3:18pm Subject: Gaggia Classic Portafilter possible problem?
Have a problem possibly with my Classic Portafilter handle. I don't know if this could cause an issue with how the espresso comes out or not, but I'm gonna try & describe what is going on. Unfortunately I don't have a computer camera to show ya all. The black handle appears to be loose, but there are not screws to be able to tighten it. I can pull the black handle away from (or back from) the filter. It then exposes these square indents in the metal part of the portafilter handle. These portafilter handles are over $50 brand new. Don't really want to have to replace it if I don't need to. Anyone? Thanks!
Chanty Senior Member Joined: 26 May 2005 Posts: 140 Location: Milwaukee, WI Expertise: I love coffee
Espresso: Gaggia Classic Grinder: Vario, had an MDF Vac Pot: none Drip: none Roaster: I buy beans from many...
Posted Sat Jan 12, 2013, 3:40pm Subject: Re: Gaggia Classic Portafilter possible problem?
I'm not sure, but with some research--it sounds like the end of the plastic handle comes off & I need an allen wrench to tighten the screw inside maybe?
Posted Sat Jan 12, 2013, 6:54pm Subject: Re: Gaggia Classic Portafilter possible problem?
Yes, you can usually pry out the end piece with a sharp object, but you may or may not be able to tighten the screw.Alot of the time they are rusted in place and very hard to get out or tighten.Its a common fault with these leading to play in the handle and eventual cracking of the handle.not sure who quoted you $50 for just the handle, handle only should be about $10-$15 online, but thats only good if you can remove your handle, otherwise a complete Gaggia commercial portafilter may fit and its a much better design! Send me an e-mail if you'd like the source for a handle
From the picture, it may not be an Allen wrench, but a thin walled socket, though I think I have seen some threads noting Allen also. If stuck, and as noted it may be, try it while hot.
Iluvdabean Senior Member Joined: 7 Mar 2005 Posts: 1,059 Location: California Expertise: I live coffee
Espresso: La Nuova Era Cuadra/Gaggia... Grinder: Baratza Preciso/K-A Pro... Drip: Capresso MT 500/Pour Over Roaster: Nesco 1010/Behmor 1600
Posted Sat Jan 12, 2013, 10:15pm Subject: Re: Gaggia Classic Portafilter possible problem?
It happened to mine a few years back. It takes a socket and Im not sure what size it is.You will need an extension also. I couldn't pry out the plastic piece on the end of the handle. I got a piece of tape and stuck it to it,then eventually worked it off by pulling it back sharply. I got it out and put a new screw in its place or cleaned the old one...it was a while ago. I also then after that never exposed the end of the handle to water and so far so good. I also bought a brand new one for reserve. The only other thing I've replaced in 5 years of constant use was a steam valve. I also have a reserve of that piece just in case.
Chanty Senior Member Joined: 26 May 2005 Posts: 140 Location: Milwaukee, WI Expertise: I love coffee
Espresso: Gaggia Classic Grinder: Vario, had an MDF Vac Pot: none Drip: none Roaster: I buy beans from many...
Posted Mon Jan 14, 2013, 5:15pm Subject: Re: Gaggia Classic Portafilter possible problem?
Okay, got the plastic end off handle, and husband used something to tighten the screw. He said it doesn't look like a square (allen wrench type) screw. It is round. He was able to get some kind of screwdriver to tighten it, but not real tight cuz he doesn't have a long enough tool to get at it properly. Geezz
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