[davyrocket2]

if rewind and fast forward are slow that could be a sign the belts want replacing but if those functions like play work then as mark says its best left alone a indication of condition of how good the videoheads are are is to make a recording ,on this model you can use the rf output from a sky plus box if it has a ariel output you then plug into the videos input and use a spare channel position and use the same number tuning wheel important thing is the tape must first be inserted and the record key pressed down also make sure the small input lever is uppermost and the switch by the ariel is set to tuner you then hold down record and press both record and play at the same time ,when playing back the picture quality should be noise free also use a good or new tape good luck and if advise is required just ask ,it may be old but may have well looked after and had new heads or belts or even very little use regards David