How to Rebuild the Group Head on Your Olympia Cremina

By JOHNNY CERINI

If you own an Olympia Cremina espresso machine, you know it’s built like a tank—but even the best machines need regular maintenance. Over time, gaskets and seals inside the group head wear down, causing pressure loss, leaks, or weaker espresso. A group head rebuild is one of the most important steps you can take to restore your machine’s performance.

This guide will walk you through the rebuild process with helpful tools, recommended parts, and video tutorials. Whether you're working on a vintage Cremina 67 or a modern Cremina SL, these steps will get your lever machine pulling shots like new.

🎥 Watch the Full Group Head Rebuild

Start here for a complete visual guide on disassembly, replacing seals, and reassembly:
Watch the Rebuild Video (Facebook)

🛠️ What You'll Need

🔩 Replacement Parts

✅ Full Gasket Set

Includes all internal seals for the group head and steam components. Recommended for a full rebuild. Fits both Cremina 67 and newer machines.
Olympia Cremina Full Gasket Set

✅ Group Head Piston Seal Kit

If you're only replacing the piston seals, this is a simpler and more affordable option. Fits both Cremina 67 and newer machines.
Olympia Cremina Group Rebuild Seal Kit (Piston Set)

🧴 Lubricant & Sealant

✅ Dow 111 Food‑Grade Silicone Grease

Use on seals and o‑rings to improve longevity and ensure a smooth piston action.
Buy Dow 111

✅ Loctite 542 Thread Sealant

Use this to seal any threaded connections where leaks might occur.
Buy on Amazon

🛠️ Tools for Reinstalling the Piston

Getting new piston seals into the group head without damage is critical. Here are two tools that make the job much easier:

🔧 Option 1: Premium Piston Insertion Tool (Metal)

Machined specifically for the newer Creminas. Does not fit Cremina 67.
Buy Premium Tool

💡 Option 2: Budget Piston Insertion Tool (Plastic)

A more affordable alternative that still gets the job done. Ideal for one‑time rebuilds or casual users. Fits both Cremina 67 & newer machines.
Buy Budget Tool

Watch Tool Demo (YouTube)

🔧 Step‑by‑Step Rebuild Instructions

⚠️ Safety First: Always unplug the machine and allow it to fully cool before disassembly.

1. Disassemble the Group Head

  • Remove the portafilter and unscrew the group cap.
  • Use snap ring pliers to remove the retaining ring.
  • Extract the piston assembly carefully.

2. Remove Old Seals

  • Pull off the worn gaskets and inspect the metal parts for any damage or corrosion.
  • Clean the inside of the group head and piston chamber thoroughly with a cloth.

3. Install New Seals

  • Select the appropriate gaskets from your full kit or piston set.
  • Lightly coat each gasket with Dow 111 silicone grease.
  • Position the seals correctly on the piston.

4. Reinsert the Piston

  • Apply Dow 111 to the piston walls.
  • Use the insertion tool (metal or plastic) to push the piston smoothly into place without damaging the seals.
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