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Expired T-Max 4x5

bvy

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I have T-Max 400 film (TMY 4053) expired 7/2003, freezer kept. I'm planning on making exposures in a Crown Graphic camera. I want to develop these in D76 1+1 (one shot) using a Unicolor 8x10 drum on motor base.

I'm wondering if I should rate this higher since it's expired (200?). Also, since I'm developing in drums, I'll be applying constant agitation and should decrease the development time by some amount. Given all of this, the various Kodak docs suggest times between six and eight minutes. I believe, though, that T-Max was "updated" around 2007, so I don't know if the times for the current formulation apply to what I have.

A lot of variables here. Any thoughts from those more experienced with this combination? I'm going to run some tests today, but would just like a reasonable starting point. Thanks.
 
Traditional wisdom says you lose speed and contrast over time... I think you would be fair to expect a speed around 200...

By all means test for development time... two or three different exposures (bracketed 1 stop up and down from metered gray) are enough information to determine the development contrast: a couple stops around metered would be on the straight line, so you could figure the contrast. Expect to develop longer.

I don't develop in rotary drum for 4x5, I use trays. I don't have times for the older formulation. But my D-76 1:1 times for fresh TMAX 400 is 13 minutes 30 seconds (for 0.62 Contrast Index).
 
My 1996 dark room data guide shows T-Max400 in D-76 1+1 for 12.5 @68f. I would start with iso 200 and bracket to see what happens. I shot a box of Tri-X 1985 exp at 160 and got excellent results, this should work out well for you.
 

You mean rate it lower?Well, I rate TMY at ISO200 anywayand my development time is 10 miutes in a Jobo drum. all the best.I'm sure it will be just fine at 8 minutes as well.
 
i wouldn't worry about it.
do a test, expose as you normally do 400 ... ..
and process as you normally process it.
i have been shooting tmy expired in 2003
shelf stored, not freezer'd and it is fine ...

your tests should show you the way ...

good luck !
john
 
bvy said:
I'm looking at the Tray Processing - Sheet times on page 8 -- the closest thing to drum developing.
Click to expand...

I expect there is no recommendation for 1:1 (or 1+1) because of the concerns about having enough stock solution in the mix.

Remember that you need a minimum of 250 ml stock D76 per roll/8x10 sheet to fulfill Kodak's minimum capacity recommendations.
 
I do not like D-76 1+1 with that film. I like the stock strength for better contrast.
 
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