How to Fix a Damaged VHS Tape

VHS tapes are damaged by a faulty VCR or if the tape is old and has been used countless times. Such VHS tapes need to be fixed so that the video heads on your VCR or camcorder are not permanently damaged. Follow these guidelines to fix your non-functioning damaged VHS tapes.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Acrylic solvent
• Alcohol pads
• Empty VHS cassette
• Leader for the tape

1. Dismantle the VHS tape carefully and locate the damaged area. Find out if the problem lies in the beginning, middle or end of the tape. Carefully note the order in which you take the parts out.
2. Cut out the damaged part and remove it from the tape. A few parts of the video will be lost, but this step is crucial to save the whole footage. Apply an acrylic solvent to wipe off at least 12 to 14 inches of magnetic backing on the tape. Use alcohol pads to remove excess residue.
3. Purchase an empty VHS cassette. Remove the damaged tape from its casing. Use an adhesive to affix the damaged ends so they do not overlap much. Let it sit for a while to dry.
4. Wind back the tape carefully in the new cassette. Slide in a new leader at the beginning and end of the tape and press the wind-up tape into the new VHS slots. Reassemble the cassette.
5. Make a duplicate copy of the original footage as soon the VHS tape is fixed. This ensures the availability of footage even if the original tape is damaged again or the adhesive wears off with time.

Tips & Warnings

• Contact a professional if you are unable to correct the damaged VHS tape.

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