Here are some generic steps that may help. 

Re-register the Windows UpdateDLL with the commands below:

Click Start, click Run, type cmd, and then click OK.

Type the following commands. Press ENTER after each command.

regsvr32 wuapi.dll
regsvr32 wuaueng.dll
regsvr32 wuaueng1.dll
regsvr32 wucltui.dll
regsvr32 wups.dll
regsvr32 wups2.dll
regsvr32 wuweb.dll

Try Windows Update again...

Hi,

Thanks to all who replied.

I am using IE6.

I deleted the 2 files in the Network directory, registered the DLLs, rebooted and the problem has not changed.  Note that now I recall that Microsoft also had me try registering some DLLs - not sure if they were the same, but their list was more extensive.

I am using Custom Install, and trying to install the Malicious Software Removal Tool (KB890830).  Since this file is already downloaded, when I try to do the update, all that happens is that there is disk activity, but the status bar stays blank, then I get the Dialog Box titled "Some updates were not installed" and it says "The following updates were not installed:  Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool - March 2008 (KB890830).

Any suggestions?

Thanks again,

wino

I had this work on the same issue. Go to "C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\Microsoft\Network\Downloader" and delete the 2 files gmgr0 gmgr1 and reboot. Windows

will replace them. Then try to download and install updates.

I now updated to IE7, but the problem of being unable to do Windows Updates persists.

Maybe try "Method2" below.

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/943144

dave5,

Thanks for your response.  I read the note you referenced, then applied Method 1, followed by Method 2, tried Windows Update and it failed to install.  Then I rebooted, tried Windows Update, and again it failed to install.

Any suggestions on what to try next?

Thanks,

wino

Okay... Another attempt....

http://www.interactiveonline.com/blog/2007/08/02/windows-updates-do-not-install-after-running-windows-repair

Perhaps method three? 

Did you re-register those files as was recommended? 

You could try a windows system file check:

click start>run

type in: sfc /scannow

(space between sfc and /)

click Ok

Insert XP CD if sfc requests it and reboot when it's done. 

There's also a repair/reinstall of XP. Personal files will be ok, but you will have to reinstall ALL microsoft updates and fixes again.

Ron 

hrova,

The command line instructions did not succeed in solving the problem.

I do not see the Windows Installer listed in the Control Panel add/remove.  I have Win XP Pro SP2.  Is there a way of checking whether it has been installed?

Thanks for your response,

wino