Problem loading tape on 4yo Toshiba w603

I used to think toshiba was an 'ok' brand, until I got this VCR a few years
ago. General complaints aside, it worked ok up until now. Now the unit has a
problem when I put a new tape, and/or turn the power on when a tape is
present. The clock/display flashes on and off for a couple of minutes, or
longer, before eventually working, but it's getting worse. Looked in the
manual and there's nothing about this. It seems like the motor unit or
something is going - not getting power or something. Time for a new one, but
is it worth looking into to repair myself or get someone else to look at it?

Thanks, Tony