'''Similar but different 'Dead' Problem after maintenance '''
I had a real problem with my ipod Classic 60GB that wouldn't restart after I did the tear down, to clean a gummed up click wheel. Basically, despite charging, the ipod wouldn't turn on AT ALL.
At whit's end, and about to throw away, I came across this from the iPhone part of this site. I shorted all three of the iPhone battery terminal by just placing a Stanley knife on them, and lo and behold, it came back to life perfectly.
[http://www.ifixit.com/Answers/View/76734/iPod+won't+power+on+after+screen+replacement,+even+when+plugged+in]