old film (plus-x) in need of harder developer

<p>I just got box of old 4x5" film (plus-x professional: end-date 04-1994). The first two sheets

are very, very soft, almost thin. Both were developed in D76 in trays, first rated at ISO 50

developed for 7 minutes, second at ISO 100 10 minutes. Still very soft. I will use it just for fun

and to learn LF techniques, but would like to get out maximum.<br>

I know that I can use harder developers (positive developer, or 2-bath ortho developing) to get

higher contrast, but would like to hear if anyone have ever "played" with such combination:

out-dated "plus-x pro" and... </p>

<p>Tnx,<br>

Janko.</p>

Try using Dektol paper developer. You will most likely get a lot of base fog no matter what you ust to develop it.

<p>I have mixed (few hours ago) positive developer based on kodak D19b recepie, but just a

little bit stronger. I know I should wait for chemicals to get stabilized a little bit, but I couldn't wait

so I developed another one... about 4 minute. yes, a plenty of base fog but finally some dark

areas. I'm still not happy with result, but is getting better. <br>

if I proceed with that rithm, I will know the "good" combination at the end of box ;-))</p>