3rd Gen 40GB iPod losing connection to computer

I have a 3rd Gen 40GB iPod that I have replaced the battery in (a long time ago) and it has been working fine for a long time. Recently, in the past month, I haven't been able to use my iPod because when I connect it to the computer via Firewire, the iPod loads and is mounted on the desktop, but then it disconnects itself from the computer. Thats followed by a "Device Removed Improperly" warning. If I fiddle around with the dock connector, I can get it to load again, but then the same thing happens.
Also, I cannot seem to get it to charge in my car anymore. If I fiddle around with the dock connector, it will start to charge then it will stop.
Does this sound like the dock connector issue?
Things I've tried - various firewire / USB2 ports and cables.
If it is a dock connector issue, is there a way to manually fix that by opening it up? Or must apple fix it?

having moved through the apple world of ipods and shuffles and phones and laptops, i have just found in moving my lovely 3rd gen (20?gb) ipod during our move. however i now have a macbook pro, and although my lovely 3rd gen ipod is playing and works, it is NOT syncing to my laptop. and i've discovered there are loads at itunes songs that i didn't back up and transfer through generations. so///
here's what happens (and i've done the reset of holding down the buttons until the apple appears).
nothing on my laptop. nothing. at all. but the ipod looks like it is receiving a charge... but it is not on seen on my desktop, not in itunes.
help anyone? thanks.

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Message was edited by: regal
I didn't leave it connected - sorry. edit by regal

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[Putting iPod into Disk Mode|http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1363]
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