Tape Doesn't go into VCR all the way

[Pesposito09]

I picked up a Toshiba M-445 VCR at a yard sale for 5 bucks, I hooked it up and turned it on. But the tape doesn't go in far enough to drop down almost feels like something is locked or blacking it from going in. anyone know what would cause that?[A
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[TreeTops]

See the answer here: https://www.ifixit.com/Answers/View/415091/VHS+Tape+won%27t+go+in+all+the+way

[davexnet]

I had a JVC VCR with similar symptoms. I was able to fix it myself once I realized a rubber belt from a small motor
to the load/unload mechanism had stretched. I was able to replace it restoring normal operation.

I don't know anything about the Toshiba, chassis looks more complicated than mine.
Good luck

[johnmeyer]

It is typically a timing gear problem. This is easy for a technician to fix, but very difficult for someone who doesn't have the tools or service manual.

[JVRaines]

Find the motor which works the loader. Then, with the VCR unplugged, turn the shaft by hand and watch what happens in slow motion. You may need to remove the loader (and possibly the mechanism) to find the problem. It's probably mechanical, but could also be a faulty electronic sensor.

[johnmeyer]

Find the motor which works the loader. Then, with the VCR unplugged, turn the shaft by hand and watch what happens in slow motion. You may need to remove the loader (and possibly the mechanism) to find the problem. It's probably mechanical, but could also be a faulty electronic sensor.

Good point. If you try to load the VCR with the cover removed, it will reject the tape because ambient light fools the sensor. You need to either put the cover back on or block the light from the sensor (I can't tell you where it is, because its location depends on the make/model of your VCR).

[hech54]

it will reject the tape because ambient light fools the sensor.

It takes a really bright flashlight blast to trigger the sensors in my JVC/Philips VCR.

[johnmeyer]

In my JVC, my shop lights are all it needs to force the tape to eject as soon at it's inserted.