Reinstall clean XP, partition the HD, but KEEP IBM Partition

[T42p]

I want to install a german Windows XP (Recovery CDs are English) on my Thinkpad, repartition the Harddrive (would like to have C: and D:), but KEEP the IBM Partition working. How can I do that?
Any help is appreciated!

[JHEM]

FDISK and FORMAT the HD and setup the partitions you want, it won't affect the hidden partiton.

Then just install your DE XP from the CD to C:.

As long as you don't "turn off" the hidden partition in the BIOS, XP can't see it.

Regards,

James

[T42p]

Ok, thanks. I just asked because I read somewehere that someone repartitioned his HD and the IBM Recovery Software didn't boot anymore due to the additional partition. But your answer makes it easy for me. Thanks a lot!

[Zeitgeist]

BEFORE you format your hdd create the recovery CDs with R&R so you will be able to restore the english system if something goes wrong...