Stark simple Paterson multi-tank question

[Daniel W.]

This question is seems simple, but wanted to check with the wise powers that be, before I jump.

I picked up a Paterson Multi-5 (that's 5x135/3x120) for a song (a $5 song), sans center column and flexi-top lid, just the tank and locking funnel, from my local camera shop. No biggie, I already have 2 flexi-top lids from other Paterson tanks. Buuut...

Stupidly, I processed 3 rolls of 120 in that condition (namely sans center column) and 2 / 3 rolls came out with a fogged block of film. I'm not heartbroken, the areas are still fix-able with the scanner, but I had a thought:

Can I take the center column from my Paterson single (2x135/1x120) but invert it so that it's at the top, would that solve the problem? (To clarify, take the configuration you would typically use, but invert it)

(The replacement column is under $10, but if I can solve it with parts-on-hand... )

[venchka]

The column is the light trap. I know, DUH! As long as you get an overlap beteen the lid and the column, it should work. You will need to fill the tank with reels to keep things from flopping around. Good luck.

ps: I've been looking high & low for a longer Paterson tank. Good score!

[Daniel W.]

It was Webster Camera in ...well Webster. They're usually a pain in the butt (in fact the guy there, who has a reputation for being incredibly inaccurate told be they don't sell with columns) but this was a rarity.They had a bunch of others 2x135/1x120's too.

[venchka]

Thanks.
I have the 1-120 tanks. I would like to be able to do 2 or 3 120 at a time.

[Daniel W.]

Part of me thinks one could simply build one perhaps... The whole light trap and light tight would be the biggest challenge. I'm going to the drawing board, will be back with ideas soon.

Edit: Ideas!

[chris00nj]

I like your drawings and am glad its not a pipe bomb, but can't help but imagine that all of this is worth $10.

[Daniel W.]

I'll agree with you on that Chris, but in the occasional darkroom junkie, there is a want to process 10-15 rolls of film at a time.... well maybe not that many... While smaller 1 and 2 reel tanks can be had for little $, the more-awesome 5 and 7 reel tanks are a bit harder to locate cheaply and are still pricey new. I got pretty lucky, but the want is still present.

On the note with the pipe bomb, I only put that because I once made a "technical" drawing of a rig to do long timed exposures (i.e. overnight) that included a clock, contact sensors, and a fair bit of wire. Imaging my shock when I got called into the office for suspicion of drawing an "explosive timer."

[chris00nj]

[QUOTE=Daniel W.;1155738]I'll agree with you on that Chris, but in the occasional darkroom junkie, there is a want to process 10-15 rolls of film at a time.... well maybe not that many... QUOTE]

I'm just saying to buy the $10 replacement column for the 5 reel tank. Total investment = $15

[Daniel W.]

Oh! The idea is for ones without a large tank whatsoever

[tropicpine]

Originally Posted by venchka

ps: I've been looking high & low for a longer Paterson tank. Good score!

I put one up for sale. some time ago.

Here is the thread.

Tank still on hand.