There is a problem reading data from the tape, Backup Exec 8.6

[RANKIN]

Backup Exec 8.6
I have a Windows NT server backing up approx 78GB of data (local and remote) every night using Backup Exec 8.6 and a Compaq 40/80 DLT tape drive.
Some nights the backup runs fine (7hrs including verify) other nights it can run for up to 24 hrs! and display multiple errors: There is a problem reading data from the tape, performance has been reduced, critical error cyclic redundancy check, and lots of soft read and write errors.
I have tried running cleaning tapes, using brand new tapes, running the backup at different times, but it is very unpredictable.
If anyone has any idea what is going on, or has a similar problem I'd love to hear from you!!
Thanks

 

[justin2000]

Yep, your tape drive has gone, get a new one, or get that one fixed.

if after cleaning and using brand new tapes, the errors are still there, that is the only thing it can be.