T60p : Clean install of XPP with 3 Partitions?

[getsandy]

I installed a new drive (160 GB) in my T60p.

1. I created 3 partitions. First partition for XPP - 25 GB, Second Partition for DATA - 100 GB, Third partition (unformated) for LINUX - 25 GB

2. I did fresh install of XPP using 7 recovery CD's.

3. Install went fine.

4. Finally when the system was ready (after completing installation)...I saw that all three partitions are gone and now there is single partition of 148 GB

Is it possible to install OS using recovery disk only in the first partition? Did I missed something while doing recovery?

(BTW, I have done similar installation on my old T41 & I did not faced any problem. The recovery disk used to install OS in the first partition only keeping all other partitions intact)

Thanks a lot

[Harryc]

The R&R discs will destroy what is on the entire drive, including partitions, and make the drive like it came from the factory. If it were my machine I'd use Gparted to create new partitions at this point, resizing the XPP partition that is currently there.

[crazyfrog]

PQMagic is another option when you want to resize a partition and create new ones. Remember to defrag the hdd first. It will save you a little time.

BTW, lenovo's recovery discs are not good for the purpose of 'clean' installation. You'd better find an XP retail/OEM disc, then you won't be bothered by resizing the partitions.

[getsandy]

Thanks a lot for the replies.

I found another free partition tool - EASEUS Partition Master

It is free for home users & comes with good GUI.