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New JOBO tank malfunction, old Jobo tank working

Lumipan

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Hi everyone,

I bought a JOBO 1520 tank a bit less than a year ago, developed maybe 20-30 films in it. And now I can't seem to fit the lid on it right. The lid is always tilted a bit to one side, so I can't fit the red ring to fasten it. Not sure why that happens, but it does. In the light I manage to do it somehow, but in the dark, no way... Anyone had a similar situation? Maybe I'm doing something wrong? When I got it I always thought it was a bit too tight

I bought it new and paid maybe 50€. A few months ago in a local pawn shop I stumbled on an old Meopta Axomat with a 50mm Belar lens with a briefcase full of accessories. Paid 20€ for the lot and included was a JOBO 1000 tank which is working perfectly (+ big Meopta easel, 4 trays some clips etc). So I'll use that one . So I have a nice working tank with a screw on lid, not sure why did they switch from screwing in to forcing in lids.

Buying new really makes little sense, one would expect it to work good for years...I don't remember dropping it or anything and the plastic does look durable.
 

mshchem

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Getting the red ring to snap into place can require a bit of pressure. Check your center column make sure it's correct and not obstructed, same with the inside of the tank.
Try putting the lid in place without the column or reel. Really lean hard on it. If you think it's defective I would contact Jobo.
These lids can be stubborn, very stubborn. Sounds like you have made a good purchase with the other Jobo tank.
 

jk0592

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I had that exact problem not long ago. I fixed it easily. A simple good hand wash in hot water with dishwashing liquid resolved the problem. I washed all components of the Jobo tank, and now the ring snaps with its characteristic sound.
 
Last edited:

Dwayne Martin

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I once accidentally folded one of the "Teeth" in the lid and the lid would not seat right. I was able to make it straight again though. Now I'm careful not to push the lid on crooked. Many times it does take a lot of pressure to get that snap ring all the way in place.
 
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Lumipan

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Thanks for the tips, I'll try to wash it thoroughly and examine for any damage...