Q: I have iPod classic 160G (late 2009). Trying to restore and getting Error 1439.  The iPod appears as a disk drive with 148G free space in my computer screen.  Files can be copied to it okay.  But there is no space for music etc.  How to disable disk use?

I assume you have tried everything here?

iPod: Cannot restore or update in iTunes with error 1415, 1417, 1418, 1428, 1429, 1430, 1436, or 1439

It could be an indication or a damaged or dying hard drive.  I would recommend doing a disk diagnostic on the iPod's HD using the instructions given by turingtest2 in this older thread.  He also covers what the resulting numbers indicate.

https://discussions.apple.com/thread/3784647?start=0&tstart=0

If necessary, post the resulting HD test numbers and we can decide what route to take from there.

B-rock

I have a similar problem. My iPod says it's whole memory is taken and when I try restoring it I get error 1439. When I did the diagnostic like you said I don't get any resulting numbers - I get 'Error'. What could be the problem and what should I do?

The fact that you can't even run the HD test on the iPod isn't a good sign.  The HD may be shot.

Have you tried just skipping to the low level reformat of the iPod's hard drive using the instructions in this article?

http://www.methodshop.com/gadgets/ipodsupport/erase/

B-rock

Yeah and I get a 'Windows can't complete formating' or something..

Also everytime I connect the iPod, iTunes shows me a messege saying that my iPod seems to be corrupted. Is it possible it has a virus (which apparently my computer doesn't)?

Is it possible it has a virus

No. The firmware is corrupted and needs to be reloaded, which is why iTunes is giving you that error message. However, if you are unable to restore or reformat then it's definitely a sign that the HD is damaged beyond repair. You'll need to have the HD or the iPod replaced either by Apple or a third party repair company.

B-rock

Thank you for your help

Your welcome. Sorry I couldn't bring better news.

B-rock