Can't recognize my external HDD anymore

Hello everyone!
The problem started when my usb cord connected to the HDD slipped out of the computer without me first unmounting it safely. Right after I reconnected the USB cable and since then the computer (no other computer as well) can find the external hard drive. After I probably read 100 different forums, here is a list of what I tried to fix the problem:
Switching to a new USB cord
Tried all the USB connectors on the computer
Tested on another Mac
Tested on another PC
Used the computer in Safe Boot
Reset SMC
Reset PRAM
Used the Disk Warrior - The program can't find the disk
Used Data Rescue 3 - program can't find the disk
Used Disk Utility - Here there is almost never a disk in the list. But approx. once an hour (if I let the disk be in the USB connector) my hard drive starts to flash and then it pops up in disk utility every third time or so. When I try to repair disk or eject disc the program start working but then freezes. When I then restart the disk utility my external disk isn't left in the list. A couple of times I've tried to find the disk with Disk Warrior when it has been seen in disk utility but the program freezes too when starting up.
Might add that the hard drive responds immediately when I plug it in, there is no noise and it works smoothly. I have never had a problem with any other USB devices connected to my computer and not even now since my external hard drive started to become problematic! So I don't think the problem is with the computer but who knows? Trying to find som great solutions from anybody.
What can I do? What are my options to access my important material on my hard drive?
I'm using OSX 10.6.7 and the external HDD is a Wester Digiral Passport SE.
Any help is very appreciated!!!

Look at the settings in Finder Preferences. Showing external drives may not be the default setting.
Phil

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