LABFIX 2 wrote:

There are some inherent problems with some jobo reels when processing certain
formats. And some process' are more prone to having problems. ie; B&W

1. If you are processing sheet film, you must use Expert Drums for even
development.

Agreed.


2. If you are processing B&W, do not use a stop bath between dev and fix.

Why not?



3. Using distilled water for chemical mixing can solve a multitude of B&W
problems.
4. Follow JOBO processing recommendations. To the letter.
5. All of my customers sheet film problems have been solved by using Expert
Drums,LOADED PROPERLY, and chemicals diluted with distilled water.

I had a customer at a museum that constantly called me in to solve a processing
problem with sheet film. They shoot 4X5, B&W and e-6. They would have a soft
diffused line down the middle of sheet film.But not all the time. It would come
and go. I performed MANY test over several weeks to try and solve their
problem. At this point they absolutely HATED their JOBO processors ( a ATL-2500
and a ATL-2000) When ever I made test, the film was perfect. Then I had the
museum make a test. When I went to take the film out to photoflo and hang to
dry, I noticed that every other piece of film was loaded incorrectly. The film
that were loaded correctly were perfect. The films loaded incorrectly(Emulsion
toward outside of barrel) had a diffused plus density line. Problem solved!
But, they still hate their JOBO's , go figure.....

Some very well known photographers use JOBO processors exclusively, with
repeatable excellent results. I know how frustrating processing anamolies can
be. But I encourage anyone with proceesing problems, to carefully review the
JOBO processor installation procedures and processing procedures-TO THE LETTER.
This solves well over 70% of the problems.

It's the other 30% that keeps me awake at night...

Irving Harris
PLR-Photographic Inc.
JOBO Premier Servicing Dealer