Any More X-tol failures?

I have used X-tol off and on for the last two years. I had a failure 2 years ago while processing tri-x. Since then I have used it only on those occasions where I use TMX (backpacking, since this is the only BW film in readyloads). T-xol is about the only developer that I like in combination with TMX.

 

<p>

 

I use it 1:3 and have never, knock on wood, had any failures. I have used both the 1liter and 5 liter packages. I mix at 100 degrees, distilled water and use the HP Combi, so I always have plenty of developer.

 

<p>

 

Is the dreaded X-tol failure still a big problem?

I have never had an XTOL failure with either 5 litre or 1 litre

packages, although I did receive some 5 litre pkgs with the hard,

caked powder which I returned for new. Have always mixed and

dilluted with distilled water up to 1-3. have also been

experimenting with adding Rodinal, as per Rodinal article at

unblinkingeye.com.

 

<p>

 

I Use it with various Ilford and Kodak films in a JOBO. It is

probably my most used developer for roll film and second to Rollo-

Pyro for sheets.

Eric,

 

<p>

 

I never had a failure either, and I almost always used the 1:3

dilution (with HP5+ mostly).

Never had a failure.I did use 5 ltr packs which are no longer

available locally & have just bought some 1 ltr packs(the ones that

had problems!!I really like the developer & will not change unless I

have problems.BTW I use it with Delta 400 ,a wonderfull combination.

I have authored a couple of threads regarding Xtol failures in the

past. Since Kodak replaced my earlier 1 litre packages of developer

with new ones manufactured in Nov of 2001, I have not had any more

failures and my confidence in the material is slowly being restored.

I think it's a great developer although I personally have had trouble

with air bells using it. I have not had a similar problem with any

other developer in the 20 years I've been developing film. A prewet

seems to solve the problem. Ilford does not recommend prewetting film

as it washed out the built in wetting agent thereby risking uneven

development.

I have not had one Xtol failure since I quit using it.

I had a problem with 1 batch in 1998. It turns out the chemical storage bottles' cap had a leak & the stuff oxidized. At about that time I got some 1 liter packets with caked chemicals. Returned them to Kodak & got good ones in return. I'm not happy about the demise of the 1 ltr packets as I prefer to mix my chemicals in small batches.

RE the remark of "only 5 ltr packs" are available.

My last trip to the photo store two weeks ago ONLY 1 ltr packs were

available!! (new stock)

B&H is only advertising 5ltr packets. I will have to check the Kodak website for more information! Thanks for the tip!