Hi Jordan and Bruce,
Thanks for the info - Checked all diodes OK, even that last sneaky pair on the VCR board. Noticed however that the VCR had a tape in showing signs of being stored in a damp 'Dunny/Midden' for some while, as embryo life forms were evident, so guess motor stall is a possibility for the problem - Check when I get it together again.
As to Mars, guess there's a possibility one could be closeted with nubile females for some several months, which might exhaust the system.
Recall Kurt Vonnegut had similar problems in 'Slaughter House Five', way back with that 'Wildhack' Gal - Mind you, was further than Mars but he had a nifty Flying Saucer laid on for the trip.
Gather on return, his kids thought him a bit daft - Great book though - 'So it goes' - Chris.
Just a thought - Reassembled and the relay still clicks, so guess not a winner this time, had a couple in with the same problem, not yet found a solution but as it's an oldie - So it goes.
Who would know it ? - Another one turned up today where chap had broken the cassette loader tray - Sorted - Never an ill wind maybe.