Static but no pic , only audio

The tape you were watching was probably worn and left a little of its oxide surface on the VCR's heads. This is pretty common, especially if you ever play rented tapes or tapes that have been around for a while. Plays great, then the next time, no picture.

A head cleaning cassette may solve the problem for you. Make sure you get a wet-type cleaner. Radio Shack has one on their website, and you can probably find one locally. If the VCR hasn't recently (or ever) had a good professional cleaning, it might be time for one. The whole tape path (everything the tape touches, and not just the heads) need to be cleaned and a cleaner tape can't do that. Video rental shops used to offer cleanings. Maybe one in your area still does or there's a shop you can take it to. We charged $20 some years back when I worked at a shop. Today it might be cheaper to replace the VCR than to clean it.