By default the Downloads folder is installed in the Dock. If it is dragged off of the Dock, it will not reappear unless you drag it back regardless of whether there is anything in it or not. At least that is the behavior on my Macs running OS X 10.5.8.

Last edited by joemikeb; 08/22/09 06:30 PM. Reason: left out key text

"All you've got to do is own up to your ignorance
honestly, and you'll find people who are eager to
fill your head with information"
--Walt Disney