IPOD auto-sync mystery

I am a relatively new user to ipods (about 2 months). I have ITunes set up to sync only the songs in my library that are checked. I rate these songs either 3,4, or 5 stars. Songs that are considered 'Recently Added' will sync correctly no matter what the rating. But after time (when they are no longer 'Recently Added'), all of my 3 star songs will delete from my ipod, even though they are still checked in my library. Only 4 and 5 star songs will auto-sync. I have the latest 7.1 itunes. Is there a mystery setting I don't know about? Thanks for any help. I would like not to rate all my songs 4 or 5.

It may be that both systems think they "own" your iPod. I don't know if this will help, but give this a try:
First, make sure that your home system is set to auto-sync and that it's synchronizing to your iPod correctly.
Then, on your work system:
1) locate the iTunes Library file (it normally will be in your users Home -> Music -> iTunes folder) and delete the folder.
2) While connecting the iPod to the computer, hold down the Command and Option keys. This should stop the iPod from auto synching with iTunes and the iPod will appear in the source list. Wait until you are sure the iPod has mounted, and that it will not auto sync and then you can let the keys go. This may take between 3 and 25 seconds depending on your computer.
3) Set the iPod preferences to manual synchronization. You should then, of course, be able to play tracks from your iPod.
Take the iPod home and connect it to your home system. If luck holds, it will then not switch it to manual.
Again, I don't know if this will help, but it's worth a try. Let us know if it works.
Good luck.

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    Good luck.

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