I have a DirecTv Hughes SD-DVR40. I came home the other night during a thunderstorm to find that the image through the DVR looked like it was underwater or melting. Occasionally is goes to a blue screen and at best all text lines appear blurry. I called Direct because I have a service plan and when the the tech came he said it appeared to be a DVR problem. Then he basically told me two things: One, he HAD to replace the TIVO unit with the the much lamented DVR unit (R15?) and two (and this is a real poison pill) when DirectTv replaces your DVR unit -- you are automatically locked in for a two year contract with Direct! He warned me that they would not tell you this but that it is the case... WOW that seems underhanded to me. I have been a loyal Directv customer for years and love it -- but why lock me in and not tell me about it? Ridiculous.

At any I have already ordered a replacement unit from Weaknees because the NFL starts soon and I can't miss it. The question I have (after venting) is this. What kind of problem could be causing the underwater/melting type picture? Can I attempt to repair it myself (as I would like to keep the DVR and use it as a second unit with my other TV (currently using a standard sat. box). Where should I start? What do I need.

Thanks in advance.

Dave
Durham NC