Layer "new" TMAX 400 versus the old version

[Cor]

I have this seemingly odd question: is the latest version of Kodak Tmax 400 35mm film made/poured on the same layer as the old version?

Reason for this question, I used to expose Tmax 400 in my Russian Horizon Panorama camera without too much problems.

Some time ago I switched to Ilford's Delta 400 film, and in hindsight I started to have problems with my Horizon.

The film transport became harder, the teeth of the malicious Horizon started to tear the sprocket holes, and transport hampered seriously after 8 exposures.

I still had this bulk loader with some left over TMax 400 (at least 10 years old, given to me) stored in my attic (hot in summer), so I gave it a try, not expecting too much of it.

It became immediately apparent that transport of the Tmax was so much smoother that the Delta, no stuttering and overlapping frames, and even nice negatives as well (so much for my obsession of always freezing film....)

As if the Delta film was almost sticking to the camera..

So obviously I want to switch back to the Tmax film, but I would like to know if they did not change the layer.

Is the layer of Tmax film so much smoother/sturdier than the Delta layer?

Thanks,

Best

Cor

 

[RalphLambrecht]

All three films (Delta 400, old and new TMax 400) are coated on the same thickness acetate (0.125 mm).

 

[Cor]

Hi Ralph,

They might be on the same thickness, but are they as strong, I observe a definitive difference between the acetate of Ilford versus Kodak. But if the layer of Kodak Tmax 400 was not changed, that would be good news for me aned my Horizon,

thanks,

Cor

 

[RalphLambrecht]

Cor

I don't think there is any difference between the film bases used. However, it may have to do with sprocket hole tolerances or a difference in friction between the two emulsions, but you can test the latter yourself.

Let me know if you need help with such a test.