i think my vcr may be damaging my tapes. It's a philips vr 550 and I've had it about 2 years now but have always had a few problems with it, but nothing like this. It is beginning to make dents in the tapes themselves and after a few recordings and rewinds they just skip and jump (the picture).

I have tested with old and brand new tapes and I'm getting the same problem. Do my heads need cleaning?

I've got alot of old recordings so wouldn't mind keeping this dieing generation alive for a little longer.

If anyone can point me toward a good vcr if mines on the duff as well I'd appreciate it.