Developing 4x5 film the combi-plan way

[Neil Grant]

.. I seem to have acquired three of these. I’m just thinking why not turn them into a hand line for small batches of film? I really don’t like the slow fill and drain procedures and the taps, when a single tank is used as intended. Any members out there tried this? THanks.

 

[Romanko]

I didn't try this but I believe this was a standard procedure with the sheet film "hangers" which were transferred from one tank to another.

 

[BobUK]

I mothballed my combi-plan because of the slow fill/empty times.
I won't part with it as the negative carrier is adjustable for a few different sizes. It may come in handy if I buy an unusual size vintage camera.

I pondered buying a couple more for the production line method of dip and dunk, but I don't see them for sale very often. So I got a Stearman Press instead. Faster fill/refill.

If I'd had access to a set of three tanks the production line would have been the way for me.
Undecided if the whole process would have been dip and dunk in the dark using open top tanks, or lights on and off for each transfer to the next tank, and lids on properly for agitation.

If using the bodies as open tanks in complete darkness thought needs to be given to how the timing would be done.
A clever idea I read was to use a small tape recorder with instructions and audible time signals for timing the process in complete darkness.

Also give some thought to developers that can be replenished for economy, plus storage of the chemicals after use with a spot of gas lighter fuel to keep them from oxidising.

 

[Rick A]

I had a Combi-Plan some years back, I don't recall it taking that much longer to fill than my 120 SS tank, it does hold considerably more chems (1 L). If memory serves, I opened the vent before filling and draining so it didn't take too long. The only reason I sold it was the film hold down left marks on the film. I'm sure it could be used similar to large tanks with hangers in total darkness.