Tape stuck in VCR

Probably not then, but you could try a tape recorded at EP.

Hi,

Unfortunately, the best chance you got of getting the tape out is to open up the video to release the tape.

http://www.partmaster.co.uk/cgi-bin/search.pl?query=Aiwa+HV-MX1+&search.x=31&search.y=3

Not good news £68!

Hello
Video casette is not moving normally. It struks at the take up spool. Check the belts. OK.

This is a common problem, either the tape drive motor, or the driver for same has failed. Sometimes it is a thing called the Mode switch too.
http://www.retrevo.com/support/Aiwa-HV-MX1-VCRs-manual/id/1077dj194/t/2/
So, it is nearly always my professional opinion that one should always get a "Quote" from the manufacturers recommended service center, Aiwa, in your case, please contact a local or head office and ask for a referral to an Authorised service center. I cannot stress how important that last point is. It is even worth the cost of shipping. You see an authorised service agent, will have trained staff, trained on their brand, also they have first hand access to parts, original parts. This will actually save you money and ensure you can actually get it back fixed. Of course asking for a "Quote" also gives on the option of repair or replace. Often my clients,do not go through with repair, unless it is moderate, but in some of the more costly jobs they see it, as do i, that a replacement, with a warranty, is a better option. As an aside here, one could then tear the TV down, and sell the Known Good bits.

check the tip in my profile

Turn over the VCR. Unscrew the base. You will see the 3 belts. Turn the rightmost belt clockwise or anticlockwise (don't remember) but you will see the tape hold mechanism moving down. Once it is all the way down, you can eject the tape out.

You may need to replace one or all 3 belts. This is being caused by belts being loose.

hope this helps.

Dave, your problem is most likely with the mode sensors. I had the same symptoms and it turned out that some lubricating gel had migrated onto the electrical contacts that make up part of the mode sensing system.

If you go over to the HV-MX100 page, I've posted a guide (with photos) under the Tips section showing how I fixed it.

with the unit unplugged take the case off and look on both sides of where the front of the tape would set, you will see two towers, one is a light and the other a receiver,check to see they are plugged in and not obstructed.Also there is a switch that the tape pushes when its all the way in which might be stuck,click it a couple times with your finger.This might help, there are other more complicated things which could cause this problem but mechanical problems are more likely.

Just the usual problem of needing the rubber belts replaced.
They last about 6 years normally so you are overdue.
Buy a kit of belts for your model from all kinds of sites on the net and install them yourself if you are handy with delicate mechanisms.
Hope ya fix it!