This is not the best way to go. The chance is that the XP drive was
partitioned as NTFS, and W98 can't read that partition.

I would recommend buying a new disk (you're going to need one eventually
anyway) and installing it as primary with the original as secondary. Then
install XP on the new disk. If the original is accessible, then you'll be
able to copy off the data safely. If it's damaged, then you are in a
position to use some data recovery utilities. Most importantly, you haven't
done anything to the damaged disk to make the problem worse.
--
Jeff Richards
MS MVP (Windows - Shell/User)
"JLP20" wrote in message
news
In a nutshell, my XP went South and can't be repaired. reinstall of XP
wipes
drive clean and I want to save some photos and data from past two weeks.

First, is it possible to install my old generic 98 OS onto the same hard
drive as the damaged XP without altering data files.

Second, if this is possible, I assume I start off by a straight 98 install
onto the C drive. How do I get the machine to boot with the 98 vs the XP.

If there is an webpage or article that covers this, I couldn't find it. If
you could direct me in the right direction, it would be appreciated.

Thanks In Advance
John