Anybody have feedback or comments about the MOD54 4x5 tank system?

[dirkfletcher]

I have been shooting more black and white lately and am wanting to shoot some 4x5 without a darkroom. This looks like a pretty cool little system, anybody use it?

Dirk

 

[dirkfletcher]

Thanks for your thoughts, I really like the idea of the MOD54 or Nikor cage as I already have a bunch of Nikor tanks and either tank system would be much easier on chemestry then a Yankee tank or similar daylight option.

I missed a couple Nikor cages yesterday at a fantastic price

Dirk

 

[tih]

I've found it surprisingly easy to load the MOD54. Practicing in the light, I felt certain that this was going to be really difficult - but somehow, in the dark, the sheets just slip right into place.
Three things I believe I'm doing right: 1: While adding a sheet of film, I hold it between two fingers, centered on the long edges. I think this gives it a shape, when I bend it, that helps it hit the right slots in the MOD54. 2: While positioning the sheet in its slots, I move it up and down, to confirm that it's correctly between the top and bottom plates. 3: after adding a sheet, I double-check by sliding my fingers over the centers of the long edges of the sheets, perpendicular to them, to feel that they're properly in separate slots.
It's all easier done than said, really.

 

[wildbill]

yes
(there was a url link here which no longer exists)

 

[Dennis S]

After a bit of practice I find loading is quite easy. The tips from tih are valuable. When I start I lay the 54 on my left leg and when it's loaded I set it straight up to load the other 3. Never a problem yet (10?x). The full check at the end really helps.

 

[nsurit]

I have both the original and the newer version of the MOD 54. Like them and have no problem with them. Watch the Youtube video on how to use it. You should have no problems.

 

[Tony Egan]

I find loading the inside sheet quite easy and the outside sheets a little harder. The middle sheet was the tricky one. I worked out a technique of loading the second sheet on the outside first, checking the gaps were consistent then easing it into the middle, checking gaps again and then loading the third. Like most things with repetition and practice you find a way that works with your brain and fingers! Finding a way of keeping the holder still is also helpful. I rest mine on the cap of an old style Paterson developing tank. If all else fails you can play safe and develop only 4 sheets. After all, shooting 4x5 every sheet is a masterpiece so why rush things

 

[Julie Stone]

For those of you who are pleased with your results using the Mod54, is your developing "routine" the same as if you were doing medium format in the Paterson?
Or does the 4x5 dictate a change, like agitation for example? I haven't used mine yet, and I'm a bit nervous. People seem to either love the Mod54 or hate it.
I was also considering a Rodinal stand development process, since some folks have mentioned uneven development along the edges and some bromide drag. Any thoughts on that?