hard time replacing laptop power cord

[Donkey_Kong]

Was wondering if anyone is an expert in the field of replacing laptop power cords. I have a Dell Latitude d810 that I have replaced the power cord and brick like three times now. The replacements are the off brands from ebay, and never seem to work for long or work like crap right from the start. They say they are compatible, but don't seem to fit snugly at the laptop, lose connection if the laptop is bumped in the slightest manner, etc, etc. I don't believe an authentic Dell power supply is available anymore as this is an older model laptop we're dealing with.

So, does anyone have any advice?

[Samstag]

Belkin makes an AC adapter that would work if you're willing to pay for better quality.

[Silas (son of Silas)]

I've used a Belkin PSU for my Dell Studio 15 that I borrowed from a guy at work. It fitted the socket as good as my original.

[Edwards80]

Aye. You want to get either the Belkin PSU or stick to Dell original's, even if it means buying 2nd hand ones.

The cheap knock-off's are usually more trouble than they are worth.

[northerngames]

I actually have a few new in the box dell power bricks from older laptop's i will check to see if I have what you need and maybe you'll get lucky.

[Donkey_Kong]

Thanks everyone, I think my better half told me to make sure they were authentic years ago, yet I kept buying the off brands hoping they would work.
 

Northern, I believe it's the PA-10 we are needing. Let me know...thanks!

[Cakemeister]

There's a modular one that I use that has different tips for the various sizes power plugs. It wasn't cheap but it will last you for more than one laptop.

[lilshawn]

i just buy a matched set of sockets and plugs and chop off the end of the adapter and replace the end. I do the same on the laptop, makes a world of difference having plugs and sockets that where made for each other.

laptop manufacturers tend to custom order or make goofy parts, then one-off the adapters so you end up with an oddball size socket that a "replacement" doesn't fit properly.