[Retired]

Shortly after installing SP2 (2-3 days), Windows Explorer began crashing every time I tried to access it. The message provided is:
"Windows has encountered a problem and needs to close. We are sorry for any inconvenience."

Thinking that it was an SP2 problem, I backed SP2 out, but I still got the constant crash. The next step was to re-install XP, which I did. Explorer still crashes whenever it is touched. Explorer never opens, just crashes.

In desperation, I downloaded a trial copy of "Universal Explorer" which gets me into the file structure and individual files but does not do some of the things I need to do. It does, however, have a launch bar that has Windows Explorer on it. When I click on it, Windows Explorer opens and I can expand the directory structures (using the + -), but when I click on any individual directory or file it crashes with the same tired message.

I looked for similar posts without success. I did try to Repair XP using the Install disk (advice given in another posting), but could not find a Repair function. When I click on the Browse CD function, it (Explorer) crashes.

It seems that anything I try to do, that requires interaction of Windows Explorer and the Directory/File system causes an abnormal Termination.

I am at a loss. Any help/advice will be greatly appreciated!