Using iPod classic as backup? Problem

[MsMcGee]

"Disk utility has lost connection with the disk management tool and cannot continue. please quit and relaunch disk utility."

This is the error that Disk Utility is giving me. I have updated all my software and have tried the workaround.
Workaround

1. Quit Disk Utility.
2. From the Finder's Go menu, choose Go to Folder....
3. Type the following, then click OK: /Library/Receipts
4. Temporarily remove these iTunes receipts from /Library/Receipts (sort the folder alphabetically as a list):

* iTunes.pkg
* iTunes4.pkg

You can put them on the desktop, for example. Do not remove iTunesX.pkg or iTunes Phone Driver.pkg.

5. Open Disk Utility and repair disk permissions again.
6. Quit Disk Utility.
7. Put the removed iTunes receipts back in /Library/Receipts.

I have also tried moving the itunes app onto the desktop as suggestions by others.

I'm guessing the problems are not related...I'll write back if and when I figure it out.

I think my new hard drive will need to be upgraded before I even get it in my macbook pro!