To videotape a program, put the cable box on the desired channel to be videotaped.  Set the VCR to receive CHANNEL 3.  Turn the VCR power ON and put its "VCR/TV" selector switch in the VCR position.

    Be sure the TV set is on Channel 3.  Put the VCR in the "RECORD" mode and begin recording.   If you want to videotape a program at a later time or date, program the VCR to tape at the desired begin and end times, and to record CHANNEL 3.

    To playback a videotape, turn the VCR power ON and put its "VCR/TV" selector switch in the VCR position.

    Be sure the TV set is on CHANNEL 3.  Insert the videotape in the VCR, put the VCR in the PLAY mode, and begin playback.

     It sounds like your TV is not set to Channel 3 (Channel 2 for some subscribers).  Try retuning your TV to Ch. 3 (Ch. 2 for some subscribers)

The audio on your TV is set to "SAP" (Secondary Audio Program) instead of to
STEREO.  On your hand-held remote control for your TV, look for a button marked "SAP" or "AUDIO" or "BTSC" and push it until your TV returns to the STEREO mode, as indicated on your TV screen.  On some TV models, you might need to enter the Menu mode of the TV and scroll to the AUDIO mode option to select the STEREO mode.

It sounds like your TV is not set to the "CABLE" position.  If it is set to "OFF-AIR" or "VHF-UHF", you won't receive cable channels above channel 13.  On the hand-held remote control for your TV, look for a button marked "CABLE" and press it.  On some TV models, you might need to enter the Menu mode of the TV and scroll to the CATV/OFF-AIR option to reset your TV to "CABLE".