BobK wrote:
Additionally, the load motor belt is not slipping. It only slips
during the fault when the basket is fully ejected to its limit. Then
for a couple seconds the motor continues to operate, which causes the
belt to slip.

Again, once the tape is manually cycled into place, all VCR functions
work properly. Additionally, the eject button works properly. The
basket ejects without a single problem. Only while trying to insert a
cassette does the fault occur.

seen this before.
first check and clean the mode switch - common problem on this model.
then remove the cassette basket. On the right hand side is a cam (black
if i recall). there are 2 leaf switches which have probably got bent
out of their correct position or are dirty - retension and clean.
Ben