The reason the unit is "eating" tapes, is that the takeup side of the unit is slipping allowing the tape to accumulate inside. This is usually casued by a bad belt that has dried up and is slipping. While a relatively simpe repair, getting to it is a bit tricky. Expect a parts cost in the $10-$15 range for belts (all should be changed).

Hope this helps,
Dan

THE VCR NEEDS REPAIRING.THE REASON WHY YOUR TAPE IS EATEN THE TAPE PATH NEEDS RE- ALIGHNMENT AND LUBICATED AS THE HEAT FROM THE TV WOULD OF DRIED THIS OUT.