So.. 240 bucks later I install the new MOBO check and recheck the cables.
Fired right up... all looks good .. windows loading screen comes up... reboot
Oh crap forgot about that part.. new chipset and all.
Skillfully using a windows xp install disk and the 'reapair' I managed to get virtually everything back without having to wipe the OS drive !
Its a convoluted process half new insall half repair, time comsuming and patience wearing one wrong step in there and poof you just reformatted.
I pulled it of and it beats the hell of wiping my drive and having to resort to pesky backups.
(Looks around a whistles.. sure yea backups..
)