what to do if iTunes can't restore my iPod (error 1433)

I can assure you they aren't "weeding out older iPods." Sometimes iPods simply go bad, as with any electronics. The iPod classic is especially prone to failure over time, since it has a hard drive with spinning parts.

You might try restoring the iPod on another computer, just in case the problem is with your copy of iTunes or your music files.

Have you tried restarting iTunes? What about plugging in your iPod, then closing iTunes if it opens automatically, then reopening iTunes with the iPod still plugged in?

Some more info: https://discussions.apple.com/thread/1351081?threadID=1351081

A full discussion of iPod reliability and Apple's upgrade policies is outside the scope of this forum, but I can give you two good options:

1. Go to the Apple Store and demonstrate the problem to them, and they'll run some tests. If a fault is found with the iPod, you'll have the option of replacing it with an identical iPod at below-market-value cost. It's usually a pretty steep discount.

2. If a new iPod is something you'd be open to, then you can trade the old one in for a 10% discount on the new one. If you can squeeze your music into 16GB and don't need smartphone-like features, the iPod nano is where you should go. If you'd rather have larger capacity and smartphone-like features, the iPod touch is for you.

Hope that helps!

I'm having the same issue with my ipod nano. None of the restarts/unplug etc worked for me. I have an older G4 machine and tried the usb (1) port on the back of the display. For some reason it seems to like this port even though it's slower.

It found and synched my ipod. Go figure.....