I just can't believe it

[John_K]

I have a Nova processor in which I use Kodak RA4 colour developer. I made the working solution perhaps 6-8 months ago, (I didn't keep a check.) It has been used fairly intensively and replenished when needed up until about 3 months ago.After that did not use it because I had no reason to do colour printing. The lids were all replaced and then the top of the processor was covered with clingfilm whilst it was still warm. As it cooled down it caused a semi vacuum inside.

I have just kickstarted the processor today and the very first print out of the developer was as near as dammit, spot on, colour wise. Saturation was up to scratch as well

Just how good is that for longevity of developing solutions? Truely amazed!

[huwevans]

Some solutions really are remarkably long-lived, aren't they? I never did much RA4, but my experiences with the Ilfochrome P-5 process were that the dev lasted for aeons, whereas the bleach-fix was exhausted if you just turned your back for a moment. I packed it in in the end - just too much of a problem having to work like a dog while the solution was fresh and then wait until I could justify a new batch, etc.

Never was as much fun as B&W printing anyway. :-)

[PeteE]

I also use a Nova 16x12" unit and have just cleaned it out after several months; the developer was quite brown and bleach-fix had some sulphur floating on the surface. I make up the stop-bath from a formula supplied by Champion Photochemistry with 80% Acetic Acid and Sodium Suphite anhydrous to make 5 litres.The developer is Champion and the bleach-fix is from Photomart.

[John_K]

Sadly I have had to ditch the RA4 because of staining. The developer was still good but the tar build up on the top of the tank was so bad that every print I made was streaked with when I removed the prints.

The tank is now clean and just waiting for a new lot of Ektacolour concentrate to arrive from Firstcall Photographic then I'm back in business.

[taxor]

My 16x12 quad has sprung an internal leak in the stop slot and there is maybe another leak from the dev slot. A phone call to the bods at Nova confirmed my suspicion that it was ready for the tip. Anyway, if anyone wants them, there are 4 tubular lids, 2 print clips and 2 heating elements (with temp. controller). Send me a PM if you're interested. T.