RCA Selectavision model VKT385 VHS VCR issue

[B 4204 T3]

Thank you for the suggestions & quick response.



When I typed my response yesterday, I guess I should have been clearer with what I wrote about my experience with the VCR.



The tape that I played a few days ago is a newer Sony T-120 VHS video cassette manufactured some time back in the mid-to-late 2000s, which was recorded at SLP, approximately ten years ago. It was not recorded on this VCR. While I was playing it, I frequently had to adjust the tracking knob. Most of the time, I just keep the tracking knob in the midrange position, which is the spot where it clicks when it gets turned, but when I played the tape in this position, there was a lot of static in the picture, and it was only clear when I moved the tracking knob all the way in either direction. The studio-made movies play fine with the tracking knob in the customary midrange position.



I guess my plan for the VCR, at least for now, is to experiment with it by making some test recordings on it at all three tape speeds so I will have references for it, and also try recording on one of my other VCRs, so I can compare the differences they make. I will also clean the audio control track head thoroughly using your suggested method.



I don't really know anything about the history of this RCA/Hitachi VCR, since it was a $10.00 Craigslist find that I bought six months ago at someone's house, and when I had it repaired by the TV/stereo dealer near me, the technician must have only done the basic repair procedure; for example, changing the belts, tyres, idlers, and lubrication, but not any advanced, in-depth service. I don't know exactly what he did with the VCR, but it's just my guess.



Once again, I can't thank you enough for the advice; I really appreciate it. If you can think of any other suggestions, then I really welcome them.