Should we use Molykote?

AlfredB

Hi fellow coffee lovers!

I see Molykote 111 recommended by many, both here and on other coffee forums as the go-to lubricant for E61 groupheads. I myself used it a couple of times, but found it somewhat lacking (lever movement would be really smooth in the first couple of weeks, but then I felt an increase of resistance and on bringing the lever down - a slight squeak) and on a recommendation from another forum’s senior member, I switched to Loxeal No 4, a PTFE and silicone grease. I lubed the whole grouphead and it has made everything ultra smooth. No more squeaks or increase in lever resistance. I gather (but don’t know for sure) that ECM use Loxeal No 4 in their machines.

So I just thought I’d ask what your opinion is on the subject.

Thanks!

Patrick

AlfredB It’s classed as safe with potable water and an expensive product. If you like it though….why not. It might be worth looking for a similar product from a UK company which could be cheaper.

MediumRoastSteam

AlfredB - when you were using Molycote, were the parts being lubricated bone dry? If they were not, the grease will not stick and wear out rather quickly.

Nfiliza

AlfredB

Interesting observation 👌

What you’re describing actually makes sense. Silicone-based greases tend to feel very smooth initially, but over time—especially with heat cycles and water exposure—the lubrication film can thin out or migrate slightly, which explains the increase in resistance and occasional squeak.

PTFE-based greases usually maintain a more stable film under repeated movement, so your experience with Loxeal sounds consistent.

That said, Molykote 111 is still widely used because of its sealing performance and compatibility with rubber components (O-rings, gaskets, etc.). It’s actually more of a sealing compound than a pure dynamic lubricant.

I came across a couple of references while looking into it:

https://www.endustriteknik.com/molykote-111-silikon-grease/

https://www.teknikexpo.com/molykote-111-compound

Both explain that it’s mainly designed for sealing, water resistance, and elastomer protection rather than long-term friction reduction.

So I’d say:

sealing & O-ring protection → silicone grease
smoother long-term lever action → PTFE-based grease

Interesting observation 👌

PTFE-based greases usually maintain a more stable film under repeated movement, so your experience with Loxeal sounds consistent.

I came across a couple of references while looking into it:

https://www.endustriteknik.com/molykote-111-silikon-grease/

https://www.teknikexpo.com/molykote-111-compound

Both explain that it’s mainly designed for sealing, water resistance, and elastomer protection rather than long-term friction reduction.

So I’d say:

sealing & O-ring protection → silicone grease
smoother long-term lever action → PTFE-based grease

Curious if anyone has tested both over longer periods (6+ months).

AlfredB

Patrick

There is also this, supposed to be top notch, but the price is frightening:

https://www.qualitybearingsonline.com/kluber-paraliq-gte-703-60g/

AlfredB

Hi Dave, thanks for responding! I actually ordered mine from Londinium (they seem to think it is the best lubrication for their lever machines) in the UK and the shipping to the US was very costly, but I got the 100g tube which should last me a lifetime : )

tompoland

Hi @AlfredB it’s recommended by Strietman for their CT1/CT2. Not to say that makes it safe necessarily but my guess is that you should be safe. I use a tiny bit on the portafilter wings and while it is expensive stuff, the tube will probably literally last 100 years.

MediumRoastSteam

tompoland I use a tiny bit on the portafilter wings

I wouldn’t. There are a few horror stories of those who lubricate the PF wings, just to find their kitchen redecorated as the group pressurises.

tompoland

MediumRoastSteam Perhaps you are saying that the portafilter will be blown off with the pressure?

Remember it’s a direct lever. I only wish I was that 💪 strong.

No explosions yet.

The recommendation to use Molykote in this way is still in the CT2 manual and I would imagine Walter would edit it if there were reports of disasters from Strietman owners around the world.

Still, stranger things have happened. I’ll let you know if I have any incidents.

AlfredB

MediumRoastSteam

Hi, yes, all the parts were perfectly dry.

Patrick

AlfredB Loxseal (Italian company) do make good lubricants and thread sealants. ACS are trying their medium strength sealant on their machines after my recommendation to change from the threadlocker they are using. I think if you like the loxseal product stick with it…a 100g lot is pretty much a lifetime purchase.

christinecaton379

Great question this comes up a lot with E61 group maintenance.

From my experience (and what many technicians suggest), Molykote 111 is still a very reliable and widely used food-grade silicone grease. It’s safe, stable under heat, and works well for most home baristas. However, what you described isn’t uncommon — over time it can feel like it loses that initial smoothness, especially if there’s buildup or if the application wasn’t evenly distributed.

Loxeal No. 4 (PTFE + silicone), on the other hand, tends to provide a longer-lasting smooth feel because of the PTFE content. That’s likely why you’re noticing better lever action and no squeaking. Some manufacturers and technicians do prefer PTFE-based lubricants for that reason, especially in high-use machines.

A few key things that matter more than the brand itself:

Proper cleaning of old grease before reapplying
Using the right amount (over-greasing can cause resistance)
Regular maintenance intervals depending on usage

So it’s not really that Molykote is “bad” it’s more about application, usage frequency, and personal preference. If Loxeal is giving you smoother and longer-lasting performance, it’s definitely a solid choice 👍

If you’re into optimizing coffee equipment and café operations, I’ve come across some useful insights here as well:
https://procafeconsulting.com/ they share practical guidance around coffee setup, maintenance, and business side of things.

Would be interesting to hear what others are using long-term!

John_Yossarian

christinecaton379 I have too noticed the “stiffening” effect of the silicone grease when applied on the lever of an E61 brew head. It is also quite difficult to clean up, I did not have ethanol handy at the time so did not do a good job removing it.
It seems the most important thing is the full removal of the old grease, especially if one lubricate the lever once a month, the accumulation of old and new is inevitable resulting in difficult to move lever/sometime a sound can be accompanying the process.
I have got Molykote as well as another food grade silicone grease, use both. Never have used Loxseal but I might look into it.