Please help. Rebuilding my T41.

[Padhead]

Hello Folks.

My T41 crashed again! This time I want to restore it correctly. Apparently I didn't last time!

I just did a full restore and recovery using the IBM partition.

My machine is pretty much stock. My signature has the info.

Only relevant upgrades to it are:
The CDRW DVDRW Multiburner is a bit of an upgrade, since IBM sent me a new one last Spring which was a bit faster.
Also a new motherboard was put in Oct '06. ( The ole' one-handed, front-side grab got me.)
The RAM is maxed out to 2GB's. Kingston with IBM FRU.

OK. I am now at an XP welcome screen. To do this at a forums.thinkpads.com, enthusiast level, exactly what steps should I take? And in which order?

Should I update it using the thinkpad software or XP? Which order?


When do I make back-up disks?

Is there a way to make a smaller recovery disk instead blowing out the system every time using the rescue and recovery partition?

When should I install Spyware vanisher, Lavasoft, Norton, Windows defender, etc?

Ironically I had a guy on the line today to buy a refurbed T60P T7600, w4Gb's RAM, with Flexview (SXGA+) with 3 years warranty for $1,350.00. But he was too busy to process the credit card and take the order, so he wants me to pick it up Monday. Urgghhh!


Folks, thanks in advance for all your help.

[gunston]

your have Maximize the upgrade of your T41