I've had my Gaggia Classic for about 5 years.
Fab machine, I love it.
Over time i noticed small drops emerging from around the basket. I wasn't sure if there was a problem with the group, or what. So I just kept up my cleaning regime - it didn't get worse it didn't get better but I was getting imperfections in my pour - the odd grounds here and there.
One day I googled the problem and found a link: http://www.bluebox.com.au/jcrayon/gaggia/index.htm
So I rang Shriro in Sydney (Gaggia Agent) and ordered the part - about $4.
I followed the instructions at the link and now my coffee pours like it was from a new machine - perfect and even.
It's since been suggested to me that this sort of thing should be done every 6 months or so. If used daily the rubber does deteriorate and harden resulting in a less than perfect seal.
That's all!
Nick
