How to clean up an improperly installed SQL server

Question

I have a Win2003 64 bit server. Trying to install SQL 2005 Standard. The install tells me a previous install is still pending. I've rebooted to no avail. There is no SQL version listed in Add/Remove.

I've removed the support files, native client and C++. It should be noted that the uninstall took over 45 minuts for each of them as it would hang around 90%

Answer 1

Try hunting through the registry for any rubbish it's left behind there. Start with what's under HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Microsoft SQL Server.