VCRs are not leading-edge entertainment anymore. DVDs are taking over that slot. However, millions of us still have and use VCR tapes for playing back everything from family movies to this afternoon's soap opera. And these machines, some of them 10 years old and older, need fixing. Here's how.

How Does It Work?

A video cassette recorder (VCR) is an electronic device for recording and playing back videocassette tapes. To record, the VCR takes the video signal from the television carrier signal and records it to magnetic tape. To play the signal back, the VCR reads from the tape and sends the signal to the television.

Most modern VCRs have four video heads (older ones may have two) and their own tuners. The tape is pulled across the heads using either a belt-, gear-, or direct-drive. Disassembly varies, but basic maintenance and repair procedures, such as cleaning, lubrication, and belt changing are about the same for most models. The electrical components are generally quite reliable, but if they do fail, it may be more economical to replace the unit rather than to repair it.

Fix-It Tip

Don't toss that VCR until you've checked to make sure that it's not just the Fuse or the Electrical Cord that's the problem. If you want a new one anyway, fix the old one and donate it to a charity or a friend.

What Can Go Wrong?

The power cord may fail. Internal parts may need cleaning. The idler wheel may become worn. The erase head may be faulty; tracking may need adjusting. Tracking may be off. The color board may be defective.