Using the Jobo 3006 (4x5 and 5x7 compatible drum) for the first time, and had a couple questions during a dry run loading dummy sheets.

1) Does the 4" or 5" edge of the sheet film get inserted first into the tubes? 2) Inside each tube there are 2 "trenches" running down the length. Is the film supposed to be situated relative to these grooves in any particular manner? 3)Finally, How does one manage to put the lid on EVENLY? The fit is quite tight, and therefore my attempts have not worked, and drum will rotate with a warble on processor. Does it call for a thin layer of Vaseline, then cranking down on lid til it's on as far as it will go all the way 'round?

I do appreciate any assistance you can give. Andre

-- Andre Noble (andrenoble@worldnet.att.net), May 18, 2002

Answers

Place the loaded tank on a low table. Press down on the lid with both hands, a hand on each side. Rotate the tank 1/4 turn and press down again. Continue until even.

To take off the lid use the foot pump. Hold the lid with both hands. DO NOT place your face above the tank. When you press on the pump the lid will pop off with a loud pop.

-- Per Volquartz (volquart@volquartz.com), May 18, 2002.

Andre, I load the drum with the notch code up, the ribs will keep the sheets from overlapping when running. As for the lid, modt of the time I don't get it on evenly and I run an ALT2500 processor. It don't seem to bother what i do with it. You need the foot pump to remove the cover.

-- Bill Jefferson (jefferw@together.net), May 19, 2002.

Thanks you, you two. Since the individual tubes of the 3006 only take a single sheet, perhaps the "trenches or grooves" are to allow solution to reach the non-emulsion side of the film?

I am in an experimental mood, and just tried a very thin layer of Vaseline on the lid lip, and it works like a charm, as you sugested, Per. The lid now sits all the way down as far as it will go, snug, yet flush all way 'round.

Bill, i just wanted to mention that 1st thing this a.m., found instruction manual for the CPP-2 which contains info on the loading the Expert drum. They suggest that on 4x5 film, that the 5" length be loaded in first, as opposed to what I believe you were suggesting, which is to load the 4" edge first. I believe I read on this site that it makes a difference in the quality of your process how you load film, but I suppose your film has come out fine.

I got this Expert drum free when I bought CPP-2. !st time using it, and you can tell it's a quality manufactured piece.

-- Andre Noble (andrenoble@worldnet.att.net), May 19, 2002.

Andre, No No No vasaline, any that gets in the drum will comtaminate the sheet of film, and will be hard to remove. I had 2 drums break on me using the foot pump. Jobo suggested that i coat the outside rim of the tank and the inside of the cover with vegtable oil. I tryed this method, and still i feel that at some time i might still contaminate the film. Bill

-- Bill Jefferson (jefferw@together.net), May 19, 2002.

I use both 5X7 and 4X5 in the 3006 drum. 4X5 goes in with the notch on top (5" dimension top to bottom) 5X7 can only go in with the 5" dimension top to bottom. An alternative to the foot pump that I don't have: I use water pressure from the faucet. A hose and fitting (or your hand) to seal around the drum opening. As water does not compress, the lid lifts off gently and easily.

-- Gary Frost (gary.frost@onemain.com), May 19, 2002.

I forgot to add: I use a dry silicone lubricant for the drum lip. It comes in an spray can. Wipe a bit on (careful not to get it in the drum, only on the lip.) Leave it set a few minutes and wipe off excess. One application usually lasts for 10-15 runs before it starts getting sticky again.

-- Gary Frost (gary.frost@onemain.com), May 19, 2002.

Cheap, effective, safe way to "pop"lids on Expert Drums: From a plumbing counter get a common grayish rubber sink drain plug that fits the lid. Drill with an electric drill a small hole through the center. Get an ear syringe such as you might already have to blow dust off a lens. One puff off sets the lid without excessive force.

-- winddancing (winddancing@olympus.net), May 28, 2002.