XPSP2 muddled recovery after missing system32/config directory

[SefDef]

I had a problem that I now know is not too uncommon: XP failed to load,
reporting "...system32\config\system corrupt or missing"

Since then, I tried to get the Windows CD to do a repair, but it didn't
recognize that there was anything to repair (didn't offer the option).
I (regrettably) installed XP again into another directory on the same
device. I have read the following and looked for recovery points, but
the new installation apparently has deleted and overwritten them (I
also looked for them with PC Inspector File Recovery).

Link: http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;q307545

I would still like to repair the system, but I would be willing to
settle for recovering encrypted files (without the key - DOH!). I found
and read the following:

Link: http://www.beginningtoseethelight.org/efsrecovery/

I DO have the files he mentioned, and of course I know the passwords
for all users. I followed the instructions up to "goto:
hklm\sam\sam\domains\account\users\%usernumbers%". I find no such
entry!

If someone can tell me how to restore the ORIGINAL install, that would
make this clam very happy. Otherwise, perhaps someone could help me
continue the key transfer?

 

[SefDef]

RESOLVED: While trying to sort out what to do, I stumbled across
something surprising.

In my profile's Local Settings/Temp folder, there was a folder named
"temp.frD78D" that appeared to be a copy of what should have been the
(missing) system32/config folder and its subfolders. I copied its
contents over and crossed my fingers really hard. It worked. It seems a
couple of apps need reinstalling because of changes made by the second
install, but everything works fine so far.

I believe this happened because power was lost while the system was
shutting down, interrupting the process that saves the last-known-good
configuration. I found the record of an intermediate step.