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New here - just got a used Rancilio MD80 AT - advice?

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  • New here - just got a used Rancilio MD80 AT - advice?

    I'm new on the boards. I've lurked before, but just started posting yesterday.

    My espresso "history" - I had a cheapo $150 delonghi espresso machine with a blade grinder about 2 years ago, then upgraded to a bodum bistro burr grinder about 1.5 years ago, then about 1.25 years ago the crappy delonghi machine broke, so I went out and got a Rancilio Silvia V3 and a Rancilio Rocky at esspressotec in Vancouver. I've been using this setup for roughly 1 year.

    Last night I installed a basic AUBER PID on my silvia, pulled my first two shots with it this morning, and was VERY impressed with the improvement.

    Also yesterday I found a good deal on a used Rancilio MD80. I've taken it into espressotec this morning to be serviced (check the burrs and stuff, fix a wonky action in the doser), then i'm going to clean it up and hopefully start using that instead of the Rocky. I've been looking on craigslist for maybe 6 months for an upgraded grinder, but Mazzers are really expensive here in Vancouver used ($600 + for a newer one). I saw a Rancilio MD50 go for about $300 a few weeks ago from a coffee shop, but I missed out.

    Now I managed to snag this beast the MD80. There is little info online about it since it isn't really used in the home a lot, but I know it has massive 73 mm burrs, very fine adjustment (stepped, but essentially stepless), and will last me my lifetime.

    Now for where I need advice. I've read that the biggest problem with this thing is that you can get 10-15 grams of coffee STUCK IN THE GRINDER spout going into the doser! Since I have to automatic version (MD80 AT), I plan on removing the switch at the top of the doser to make it "manual" if I can figure it out, which will also then give me access to the grinder spout. I'm guessing i'll just get a brush or something and scoop it out after every use. Seems like a pain in the ass compared to the ease of my Rocky, but for the big upgrade in grind quality and adjust I think I can live with it.

    Does anyone with an MD40/50/80 have any tips for helping to minimize this buildup? Any tips for easy removal? Just a brush? I was thinking if I could remove the spout, I could line the inside with teflon tape to maybe help it stick less, or maybe I can partially block off half the spout so that there is less physical volume for coffee to get stuck (but i don't want it to build up pressure and keep grounds stuck in the grind chamber).

    Any tips would be appreciated!

  • #2
    G'day mate...

    Haver attached the User Manual which includes schematics for various models; to help you sort out the auto-fill switch stuff. Remember, be very careful working with 240V AC equipment - No second chances if you get it wrong. If you're not confident doing it, pays to involve a Pro.

    Regarding cleaning out the spout... This isn't really a biggie. A small (13mm) paintbrush with synthetic bristles and a shortened handle make cleaning out pretty painless and effective. Have been doing this with every grinder I've owned over the years.

    Cheers,
    Mal.
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    • #3
      Thank you for the help!

      After reading all of the fuss about coffee stuck in the grinder spout, i've been using a toothpick to clear out the spout on my Rocky after grinding, and a lot of coffee even gets stuck in there! Shouldn't be a problem I think!

      Originally posted by Dimal View Post
      G'day mate...

      Haver attached the User Manual which includes schematics for various models; to help you sort out the auto-fill switch stuff. Remember, be very careful working with 240V AC equipment - No second chances if you get it wrong. If you're not confident doing it, pays to involve a Pro.

      Regarding cleaning out the spout... This isn't really a biggie. A small (13mm) paintbrush with synthetic bristles and a shortened handle make cleaning out pretty painless and effective. Have been doing this with every grinder I've owned over the years.

      Cheers,
      Mal.

      Comment

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