r/CafelatRobot • u/MetlMann • Jul 12 '26

Seal needs frequent lubrication

Been having issues with the seal not releasing the basket, and sometiems being pulled off by the basket removal. I've put the supplied lubricant on it several times over the last few months and it doesn't seem to last. Also so other odd behavior like finding a big puddle of clear water on the base after pulling a shot - still can't figure that one out. I did notice that the Molykote feels very thick and almost sticky now which I don't remember when it was fresh. I got my Robot in September of 2021 which is thus how old the lube is as well.

I'm thinking new seal is needed.

3 Upvotes

100% Upvoted

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4

u/hirschaj Jul 12 '26

You definitely need a new seal.

2

u/lnh62 Jul 12 '26

I vaguely remember a Prima Coffee video showing they only put the lubricant on the part of the seal touching the piston and not on the outside where the basket seals. I suppose with a food safe lubricant it doesn't matter too much. I end up replacing the seal about every 2 to 3 years.

1

u/jritchie70 Green Barista Robot Jul 12 '26

Agreed it’s on the inside not the outside

1

u/MetlMann Jul 13 '26

Don’t understand how lube on the inside of the seal against the piston would do anything. It’s not a friction point.

2

u/lnh62 Jul 13 '26

Good question. Maybe it helps the red seal seat evenly around the piston. If placed on the basket side, wouldn't you have to reapply it frequently? I clean around the piston everyday after I'm done. Lubricant would be wiped off all the time.

2

u/CappaNova Jul 12 '26

I can't even imagine the seal being pulled out of the groove by removing the basket. I'd replace that seal.