Video Playback / Recording Devices

I didn't see any problem exactly like this one: my 7-year old Quasar TV/VCR combo often emits a high-pitched squeal while watching or rewinding or fast forwarding a VHS tape. Is this just a matter of needing to clean the VCR or does this mean it's only downhill from here?
Thanks

Our cable company has fired the first digital shot at us in SW Alaska, GCI cable is starting to convert to digital.
Everything I currently own is analog except for the DVD player.
On weekends I work two 12 hours shifts. I currently run three VCRs...sometimes all at the same time...movies and sports.

Hi: I bought an Audiologic VCR/DVD player from target.com. I hooked it up to my Philips Magnavox TV and the VCR works but when I try to play a DVD the LCD on the player says "Root" and will not display the dvd.
Looked in the manual and "Root" has something to do with viewing the cast and credits from a dvd movie . . . ????
What to do? Thanks, I appreciate your time, LJ