My sony handycam digital 8 285E is showing problem C : 31: 22

The C31 indicates that there is a motor movement problem. I don't have the manual handy at the moment, but the :23 will indicate which movement is having the problem. This is not typically a DIY repair. I woul d strongly suggest that you check the fixed repair cost from a Sony authorized service center. This will not only repair the unit, but also reset it back to factory specifications.

I'll look up the error code tonight and try to update this.

Dan

This is the most common problem in Sony camcorders of various models. It is most likely a problem with a rubber bushing on the inside. It is an easy fix but it is very hard to explain with out pictures. Here is a link to a GREAT tutorial however, it is written in Japanese. All you need to do is follow the excellent pictures and this should take care of the problem. The plastic tube on the inside of the rubber bushing is the most likely cause so just follow the pictures. He uses a drinking straw to fix this. Good luck. This has fixed my camera perfectly!!!!!!!!! http://d.hatena.ne.jp/tomo_snowbug/20090207/1233989258

Try the following link to troubleshoot this issue:
http://www.kb.sony.com/selfservice/microsites/search.do?cmd=displayKC&docType=kc&externalId=C190805

Hi, I had the same problem. When I inserted the new (or old ) cassette, it was showing me the same simbol as you are describing here.... The one thing to do here is to let it check in some CamcorderReparingCentre. After I let it to repare it they told me that there was some kind of engine broken , I paid £60 for reparing but my camcorder is working again,properly like before...

C:31:42 shows following error..
FG fault during normal drum operations.
Its related to drum assembly (video head) in camcorder and possible reason can be drum stuck with some thing, no power to drum motor etc.

Yea it worked after i smacked the side of it a few times Thanks!!

Did you tried new DVD disc if yes then you need a new LASER assembly this would be expensive to repair you must go to Sony or 1 of the servive center for Sony
Good luck

try to go here and download the driver or just look for your model and download on that link. install it to your pc.
http://www.sony-asia.com/support/download/1656/product/dcr-hc39e?site=hp_en_AP_i

try also here
http://download.css.ap.sony.com/consumer/IM/2584907131.pdf?p=1

CHARCOIS

go here

Even there is DV inside it is showing message "Reinsert the cassette"
How to solve the problem