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!

DavecUK

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.

AlfredB

DavecUK

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.

DavecUK

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.