right, well i just got and installed my new DVD-RAM (LG hl-dt-st DVDRAM GSA-4163B) tried using Windows own wizard, and it still asks you to insert a Writable CD... then tried a DVD with Nero and it worked fine. So, as long as i keep using Nero it should be fine... i'll let you know if theres any probs with this Drive.

Thanks very much for all the help, i may not have fixed the old drive - but i learned a lot, and know some stuff i could try for myself instead of asking. Thanks guys.