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Portafilter question

davleedavlee
edited January 1970 in Espresso Machines
The instruction manual for my Expobar states that the handle of the portafilter must be 90 degrees to the machine when in place. Even empty, mine requires more force than I am prepared to apply to achieve this.

Is it normal to have to force it fairly hard to get the required position.

Dave
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Comments

  • RichardMRichardM
    The risk is that if it isn't at 90 degrees, and it moves a little under pressure, it can blow off (mine HAS done that before, and it's not a fun experience).  Just watch it as you are pulling shots, and make sure it doesn't start to swivel back at all. You can put a lot of pressure on it, as nothing is likely to break. Over time, the rubber will compress and settle in a bit, and it'll likely become easier.
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  • Koffee_KosmoKoffee_Kosmo
    Richard is correct The lugs on the PF handle match the group head and if you look closely you will observe that the lugs are cast at an angle This angle is the start of the manual compression and release cycle The PF needs to be locked in at a point of no return for correct lock under pressure Lock in just under the point of no return - and due the angle of the lugs may cause pressure creep and the PF will unwind on its own If this occurs it may result that your PF will blow out and fall - coffee will be sprayed everywhere ( not a pretty sight ) Possible options to overcome it 1) The rubber head seal will wear down over time ? 2) Get a softer rubber compound seal if available 3) Get a seal that is not as thick 4) File down the lugs to suit ( Note - Not recommended unless its the last resort ) KK
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  • GraGra
    You can also lay a sheet of sand paper on the bench and sand some off the top of the seal too make fit.. Cheers Gra..
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  • derrilexderrilex
    I think its a brand new machine though ??? It will settle in. Maybe put a smear of rice bran oil on top of the Basket and lock it in a few times
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  • davleedavlee
    Thanks everyone, It is now bedding in nicely
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  • derrilexderrilex
    Sweet :thumb:
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  • UNMUNM
    on 1344927393:
    And you did what to it ?
    I'm picking he used it a bit.
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  • derrilexderrilex
    Was always going to end well. Show me a new machine that isn't tight - and I'll show you a demo model :rofl:
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  • askthecoffeeguyaskthecoffeeguy
    on 1344941595:
    Was always going to end well. Show me a new machine that isn't tight - and I'll show you a demo model :rofl:
    :rofl: :rofl: :rofl: as a good rule of thumb I insert the handle into the machine with moderate force then give it a gentle tap to ensure that its locked in place  ;D
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