How can I get an old VHS tape to rewind?

Question

I am trying to convert my wedding tape to DVD, but when I put the tape in the player, it will not rewind. Other tapes do, so it's not the player. I'm afraid of breaking the tape, so just wondering if anyone else had this problem and has a technique to rewind it.

Answer 1

Take it to someone who still knows how to repair VCRs. They may be able to save the actual 'tape' and replace the cassette part for you... or, they can convert it. With something so valuable, I would be afraid to mess with it.

Answer 2

I know this sounds really stupid by try to rewind using your finger

Answer 3

yeah, try to rewind it manually

Answer 4

One thing you could do is take a variable speed drill (pull the trigger slightly and it move slowly, pull the trigger hard and it moves fast) and insert a paddle bit (a bit used to drill hole anywhere between 3/8" and 5" in diameter) into the chuck.  SLOWLY! SLOWLY! SLOWLY press the trigger of the drill and rewind the VHS.  I have used this technique many time and it has proven an excellent method.  I never use my VCR to rewind my VHS tapes.  It can cut the life of your VCR by up to 50%!  I have always used VHS rewinders.  I use the drill methond when my rewinders have broken.