Old Developer

[David Ruby]

I've got a little more than a half gallon of XTOL and about a half gallon of TMAX RS that are both just about three months old. Should I toss this and mix some new developer, or is there a way to compensate for the age? Thanks.

 

[Stan. L-B]

It dependes on a number a factors.

Are the developers neat, undiluted?
Were the developers stored in low temps?
Are the developer containers devoid of air?

If the anwers are yes to all, then no worries.

If no, then all may not be lost. Make a clip test - it must be worth it.

 

[David Ruby]

They have been mixed, so they are diluted.
Yes, pretty much 70 degrees F
No, they are half full.

I like your idea of a clip test. I may try it. It just hurts to pour developer out
! Thanks.

 

[Shesh]

If the dilution is more than 1:1, discard it. If not, go ahead with the clip test. That said, it would hurt more if you ruin the film running it though an exhausted developer.
All the best.

 

[Tom Hoskinson]

Good advice.

One note of caution, XTOL can go off very quickly, with no color change. Since it has been mixed for some time, it is best to test every time before you use it.