VHS player stops after 5 seconds
Hi,
Based on your post/description, sounds like a mechanical problem with the take-up spool.
As this would involve mechanical diagnosis and repairs, your best bet may be to seek the services of a qualified professional.
Should you want to venture do-it-yourself, you need to remove the top cover and expose the inner mechanism of the VHS tape player. Of course the usual safety precautions when working with electrically powered devices. Once the inside mechanism is exposed, you will notice that there are 2 spools where the tape would be sitting when fully loaded. The right side is the take-up spool responsible for winding the tape when played or fast-forwarded. When fast forwarding during stop-mode it is direct gear driven however during play and fast-play, the take-up spool is driven by a clutch sandwiched between the top portion and the bottom wider portion. You need to disassemble the take-up spool. It may be held in place by hard press, force-fit, lock or retaining clip. Normally there is a spring near the top. Upon disassembly, you will notice the clutch which is a white fabric/cloth/cotton appearance. This has to be replaced. Probably available in eBay. In my location, such spare part is not readily available and we have to make do with work-around (not necessarily technically right but as long as it works and for your info only). Things we try:, Stretch the spring, the idea is to put more pressure on the clutch when assembled back; roughen the contact portion where the clutch mates with the spool assembly; worst case scenario, forget the clutch, dab a drop of rubber adhesive on both sides of the clutch.
In certain models/versions, it is possible that a slipping belt is causing the problem. In some instances, it could be the driving motor.
Hope this be of some help/idea. Post back how things turn up or should you need further information.
Good luck and kind regards.