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I actually think I need to do this:
Like you say, there’s probably scale in there and the tip of that needle valve is either clogged or pitted. I thought there was a washer or seal that could be replaced, but I think I’ve got that mixed up somewhere.
Edit: it’s the first time for it to come off. I reckon I’m going to need some O rings for re-assembly. Not a job for tonight…
Jonny69-
good luck. i've replaced mine twice since 2012 and if it's been on a while it's a fucking arsehole to get off as it needs to come straight up out of the hole in the main block, you can't lever it up and out without possibly bending/distorting something and causing damage. i found wiggling it back and forth a few mm by the spindle end a metric bastardload until you can finally get a thin bladed screwdriver under to lift it it was the only way to get it off
HatBeard
Hmm, I had this and replaced the valve, search internet for Gaggia steam valve. Didn't actually help all that much though, find it better after a descaling/backflushing so reckon there is some scale somewhere stopping the valve closing fully