Glad you fixed it. Just proves the old network administrators rule: if it
isn't working always suspect the cabling first.

All the same, if the hard drive is really old, say 5 years or more, check
for bad sectors and consider replacing it soon if there are any. Even if it
tests good the reliable life of a drive isn't usually much more than 5
years. However if there is nothing "mission critical" on it then enjoy! It
could last 10 years...