Varia VS6: Switching the Burrs

This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to switch between flat and conical burr sets on your Varia VS6 grinder. It highlights the unique capability of the VS6 to utilize both flat and conical burrs and includes specific instructions on using spacing washers when upgrading to flat burrs for espresso grinding.

Technical Skills:

Users should feel comfortable performing basic mechanical tasks involving disassembly and reassembly of grinder components.

Tools Needed:

• Included wrench set (provided with your Varia VS6)

• Pick or small magnet (for washer removal)

Associated Parts:

• Flat Burr Upgrade Set or Conical Burr Upgrade Set 

• Spacing Washer (included in VS6 equipment and spare parts kit, needed only for flat burr espresso grinding)

1. Introduction to Burr Compatibility (00:04)
2. Remove Hopper and Indicator Ring (00:24)
3. Remove Upper Burr and Support Springs (00:36)
4. Remove Bottom Burr and Set Nut (00:42)
5. Base Washer Removal (00:54)
6. Install Bottom Burr (01:07)
7. Replace Support Springs and Upper Burr (01:34)
8. Reinstall Hopper and Indicator Ring (01:37)

Step-by-Step Burr Switching Instructions:

Important: Before beginning, ensure your grinder is turned off and unplugged from the power source to prevent injury.

Disassembly:

1. Remove the Hopper:

   • Rotate the hopper counterclockwise until it is free from the grinder.

2. Remove the Magnetic Indicator Ring:

   • Lift off the magnetic indicator ring and set aside.

3. Remove the Ring Bearing and Upper Burr:

   • Lift the ring bearing out carefully, followed by the upper burr.

4. Remove Support Springs:

   • Remove the four support springs located beneath the upper burr and set aside.

5. Remove Bottom Burr:

   • Using the included wrenches, unscrew the reverse-threaded set nut holding the bottom burr.

   • Lift off the flat washer and the bottom burr, setting both aside carefully.

6. Remove the Base Washer:

   • Using a pick or magnet, remove the thin washer located at the base of the drive shaft.

Reassembly with New Burrs:

7. Install Spacing Washer (Flat Burr for Espresso Only):

   • If you are installing flat burrs and plan to grind for espresso, first install a spacing washer from your spare parts kit onto the base of the drive shaft.

   • Note: If installing conical burrs or grinding coarser than espresso, do NOT install the spacing washer.

8. Install the Bottom Burr:

   • Place the new bottom burr into the grinding chamber.

   • Secure it with the flat washer and reverse-threaded set nut, tightening it gently using the provided wrenches.

9. Replace Support Springs:

   • Place the four support springs back into their original positions around the burr chamber.

10. Reinstall Upper Burr and Bearing:

    • Place the upper burr onto the support springs.

    • Position the ring bearing on top of the upper burr.

11. Replace Hopper and Indicator Ring:

    • Screw the hopper clockwise until secure.

    • Replace the magnetic indicator ring.

Final Adjustment:

After reassembly, you will need to dial in your grinder settings to achieve the desired grind size.