Problem with 16x20 RA-4 print

[SpeedGraphicMan]

Hello All!

I need a bit of help.

Whenever I develop a 16x20 RA-4 print in my Cibachrome drum, I get what appears to be uneven development along the "bottom" of the print (where the drain out is) The rest of the print is great, but that part is darker and magenta.

And yes my roller base is 100% level.

What is going on and what can I do to prevent this?

Should I lower my developing temp for longer/slower development times?

It is 3:50 at 80 Degrees F.

Thanks all!

[Larry Gebhardt]

Light leak? Is it on the white border too?

[SpeedGraphicMan]

No it is not a light leak... I am guessing it is just over-developing at that end as the tube drains?

Any advise would be super helpful. Should I try diluting the Developer... Lower Temp... Any sugesstions????

[Ivan J. Eberle]

I found Cibachrome was not nearly so fussy, but RA-4 is quite subject to color shifts with minor temp and time changes, what are you doing for tempering and timing? Nail down your draining and filling routine, using not more than 10 seconds on the drain time. If your Ciba tubes won't drain that fast, you may be out of luck. Might get a Jobo tube; I recommend a Jobo CPP2 with the Lift accessory for use with developers with short cycle times and tight temperature tolerances. Also try using a glacial acetic acid stop bath after development and before blix, it cures a lot of problems.