A tough question regarding the AC adapter packed in with the iBook G4

Question

I have had this iBook less than a year after buying it new from Apple and along with it, I bought Applecare for piece of mind.
Now onto the question here. The "Duck" connector (the flip out AC prongs) that connect to my power brick has failed and I was informed that this was a "consumable" by an Apple representative even when talking to a "higher up" along the support chain. He informed me that it was in my included documentation but if this was included, I asked him just exactly what page might I find this on or a page detailing just what is covered or not covered when it comes to the Applecare warranty on portables. Needless to say, I did try combing the site and my original print manuals and Applecare paperwork saying nothing about "consumables" when it comes to a notebook computer.
I ended up setting out and buying another USB iPod charger just for that silly connector so I could charge my battery but still puzzled by Apple's response to this.
Anyone else ever experience such great service or a similar problem with the power brick in general? (sarcasm...)

Answer 1

On my iBook models using the same white cube power adapter, I've used
only the cord they supplied with the adapter; and have not used the odd
toggle/plugin it shipped with. I heard stories about the connection not
being as good if that little part was used, so I always use the long cord.
No issues; I plug the AC cord into the power first, and the little DC cord
into the computer second. Less sparks, too; and not as big a shock to
the computer as plugging it in the other way.
Someone may be able to get just the replacement part you seek without
buying another complete adapter. If I could find the small plug part, I'd
just send it to you; but I think it got lost or ran away due to disinterest.
[To just replace that part of the adapter, when travelling overseas
would be a better idea (to comply with local power-port shapes)
than carrying a whole set of power cord adapters. I wonder if
they sell just that part in that Apple universal power adapter kit?]
I also have a second complete new adapter in the original sealed package;
so I hope it works when or if I need it. The part should be under the extended
warranty; just like I was told the battery should be, too. These factoids may or
may not be true. Or if they were, perhaps they no longer are. A product specialist
would be one to ask what the policy is on an exact item. I'm not that!