Automatic update hangs in XP Pro.

[bigdawg]

I have an unusual problem with Automatic updates. It use to work just fine, but lately I noticed that the computer was extremely slow to boot up. I looked in Event Viewer and saw the following error:

Event Type: Error
Event Source: Service Control Manager
Event Category: None
Event ID: 7022
Date: 12/17/2009
Time: 6:17:50 PM
User: N/A
Computer: STAN-107C7C526F
Description:
The Automatic Updates service hung on starting.

I changed the setting in Services to Manual and now the computer starts normally. I still get my weekly alert for security updates in my task bar, however, if I go to the Windows update website, I will first need to change the service setting back to Automatic.
I have tried SFC /scannow and even tried a full Windows repair...no luck.
I've searched the web, and this site, but didn't find anything like this.
I use SP3 and have all the latest patches...current firewall (ZA pro) virus protection (ESET NOD32) and Spyware (Webroot SpySweeper).

By the way, Automatic update seems to eventually start in the Event viewer so it isn't that it doesn't work at all, just severely slows the computer down on bootup.
Any ideas???
BD

[Arval]

Try re-registering all Windows Update files. Close all apps, Move the entire contents of the %systemroot%\softwareDistribution folder to a temporary directory, and then revisit WU/MU. Type, separately, each of the following into the Run box and click on OK. If you want you can also check out the following links.

http://forums.techarena.in/windows-update/643421.htm

SP3 install System Hang

http://forums.techarena.in/windows-update/587478.htm

[bigdawg]

"Type, separately, each of the following into the Run box and click on OK."

I guess I am thick...type what into the Run box?