Removing Portafilter Handle

[LDT]

I delayed posting this because I thought I could figure it out myself, but dicided to check out the collective wisdom of those on the forum. I'm looking for suggestions for removing portafilter handles without damaging them. I received my machine in December, 2011 and I have been told LaSpaziale is using a threadlocker compound which makes removal very difficult. Any suggestions?

[slo]

I wrapped the handle of mine in a bicycle rubber tube to protect it and prevent slip and clamped it in bench wise. I then wrenched the P/F out. It was tough but it gave...

[LDT]

Thanks Slo for your response. I'm going to turn some Portafilter handles out of Cocobolo and African Blackwood, but wanted to remove the existing ones without damage.

[symbology]

I know this is an old post, but I will chime in here anyway.

The outer plastic sleeve slides towards the PF exposing a hex shape that allows the use of a wrench to remove the handle. I think that I used a piece of pipe to tape the outer sleeve out of the way.

[scareyourpassenger]

I ended up heating the portafilter using a coffee siphon torch. Worked like a charm and there was no need break out a vise or exert a ton of force.

[LDT]

I know I'm showing my ignorance, but what is a coffee siphon torch? Photo maybe?


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[scareyourpassenger]

I know I'm showing my ignorance, but what is a coffee siphon torch? Photo maybe?


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD

Looks like this and is used for vacuum brewing. http://www.amazon.com/Wall-Lenk-BT4601- ... pd_sim_k_1