installing XP and linux without deleting vista backup

[bob.smith]

hello, i have a t61 with vista home premium OS.
I wanted to know if it is possible (and how) to run xp and linux as my operating systems - without vista!
i would like to do this without deleting the backup vista installation option. the reason i want to keep the hidden drive (i think they call it x-drive) is so ill be able to sell my computer with its original factory settings - this is important.
I've read quite a few posts but i didn't find a solution for my problem.
thanks.

[carbon_unit]

Make the recovery disc set and try them out before proceeding. Then you can restore it to factory condition at any time by running the discs. Just leaving the recovery partition is not good enough. You will alter the Master Boot Record during XP installation rendering the recovery partition unbootable.
After making and trying the recovery discs, delete the recovery partition, install XP first and Linux second.