Thinkpad trackpoint error?

Thinkpad 765D -- POST error 8611. (Trackpoint)
Setup/Test comes up which has no provision to
disable the feature and must be done from DOS
or WIN after boot using the IBM Setup Software.
Error won't let me boot!? I tried reset bios. No GO.
I unplugged the strip to the trackpoint. Didn't help.
Pulled CMOS Batt. Nutin doin. Plugged in an external.
It works, but the error still wont let me boot. I would
try flashing the bios but if I can get past post what can
I do? Any ideas?