(I've posted my HijackThis log, no responses)

HJT has given a response. good luck, sounds like a nightmare

IE shares many underlining files with any Windows Operating System.
Removal removes Operating System files needed for other applications.

Trying a Reinstall/ Repair is Operating System specific. Are you using 98?

Here are some links to read:

http://www.broomeman.com/support/wsiedown.html

http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=174680

http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=293907

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/185836/EN-US/

Excellent advice jephree