VTR High Pitch Noise? Needs silicon lubricant?

[Winsordawson]

I am having difficulty playing back tapes, as there is a high-pitched screech during playback, perhaps from a roller. The image was blurred with tracking lines but no other issue. This has never before been a problem, but it started after a tape I was fast-forwarding got stuck and required manual removal. Does this mean a part needs lubrication? I read that something like a silicone grease would be necessary.

[lordsmurf]

I hate when mechanical error pop up. I had a VCR scare myself, last month, due to a tape unraveling in the deck. It snapped for no reason.

If it happens on multiple tapes, it probably is grease. You must have wiped some off.

Or worse, it can all over the tape. You DO NOT want lubricant in the head assembly!!!

[Winsordawson]

Thanks, not only is it a pain to remove the tape, but to reassemble it as well. Is there a recommended lubricant to use? And I assume only a drop is necessary? I wouldn't want the tape to spread it around to the head.