[torbjorn]

A such problem can have many causes. It is common that the lamp or infrared LED that stands upp in the cassette compartment (there is a corresponding recess in the bottom of VHS cassettes) is bad or that any of the phototransistors on each side of the compartments is dirty. Also, there can be problems if strong external light reaches the phototransistors.
Note that you cannot check an IR led by watching any light from it.

Another possibility is that the mode switch of the vcr mechanism is faulty or maladjusted.
Or that there is a mechanical problem - seized mechanisms, slipping rubber belts etc that prevent the loading mechanism from going to a home position.

[lc_from_pa]

My brother gave my wife and I a 19" Emerson tv/vcr combo to use in our bedroom. We have three little boys who decided it would be fun to stuff as many dvd's into the vcr slot as possible. I cleaned out the dvd's but when we turn on the tv, there is the vcr status display and the whirring noise as if there was a tape in it and it was trying to eject it. After about 10-15 seconds the entire unit shuts off...everytime. I've tried leaving the unit unplugged, looking inside for anything else...nothing. Not that the unit is highly prized, but my wife and I like watching some tv before going to bed. The dvd's...um...stimulating entertainment!

Any help on what is causing this would be great, as I've emailed Emerson twice and haven't got a response. I have no clue what I'm looking for inside the vcr...so any responses, please walk me through it...thanks.