RA-4 Ektacolor, Part A - Black?

[bvy]

I just reordered RA-4 developer, the Kodak Ektacolor RA/RT kit (10L). The Part A has the color and translucency of (black) tea. That doesn't seem right to me. The number stamped on it is 1223 A1 01237. Should I ask for a replacement?

 

[EdSawyer]

Yes. where did it come from?

 

[lhalcong]

I had the exact same case recently of a batch where part A was also quite dark (dated 1228). I freaked out and requested for a replacement after everyone in apug.org and photo.net had confirmed that Part A should be clear. The reseller would insist that it was ok for Part A being dark and that it would still work according to Kodak Specifications. When I made an attempt to ask Kodak directly 'cause I didnt trust, I was never lucky to find someone that would be able to confirm. Finally I received the replacement from the reseller after much fighting, this time Part A was clear with pale yellow tone. It was dated 1305 . However, they did not take the old one back and said I could keep it. At that point , I tested it; what do you know. The Reseller was right. the Developer worked just fine side by side with another batch.

 

[bvy]

It's good that it worked for you, but as I stretch my chemicals over a long period (ten liters is a lot for me) I want to start with the freshest chemicals.

I purchased from Unique Photo. They were quick to send a replacement -- no hassle, no questions asked.

 

[lhalcong]

I totally agree with you. I am exact same case as you. I wanted the freshest possible because my low volume, and the reason I had to fight to get the replacement. I was just surprised to see that it worked fine too.

 

[EdSawyer]

Good to hear. I've used Unique in the past - they have been great for me also.

-Ed

 

[Michel Hardy-Vallée]

Black means exhausted. It will never work properly.

 

[bvy]

Well, Unique sent a replacement -- with another black Part A. So now I'll be pushing the limits of their customer service, as I'll be asking simply for a refund at this point.