No startup - missing network in device manager

[apollo]

While attempting to replace the drivers for my Realtek 8029AS ethernet adapter, it seems I removed the 'Network Adapters' icon from the Device Manager. Apparently that's bad because now my PC will only boot up in safe mode (see #3 in sig for sys specs).

This is what I did before the problem presented itself:
1. Removed 'PCI ethernet adapter' from Other Devices in device manager (had yellow circle with '!' in it).
2. Removed a duplicate Realtek adapter from Newtork Adapaters in Device Manager (also had yellow circle with '!' in it).
3. Removed remaining Realtek adapter from Network Adapters in Device Manager (intended to re-install drivers from manufacturer's site).
4. Restarted PC.
5. PC made electronic grinding noise while attempting to boot up (never heard one like it before).

As I said, the PC will now not start in normal mode, will not detect any network devices and there is no 'Network Adapters' listed in the Device Manager. A message (presumably an error) flashes on screen during startup but it's too fast to read. I have the Win 98se disk and Realtek's drivers on floppy but I can't seem to get either of them to work to install/detect the adapter. Can this be fixed?

Thanks.

[Panama Red]

You can do an Over-the-top-repair with 98se much like with XP. There's a sticky thread in the tips section.

http://forum.pcmech.com/showthread.php?t=70846

[apollo]

You're quick PR! I was just coming back to edit the post saying I figured it out. Attemtping to add the adapter in Network wasn't working so I tried starting with the client instead. Bingo! That set everything else up, then it was just a matter of restarting, allowing the detection and getting the proper drivers installed. The issue I set out to fix isn't solved yet, but now at least I'm booting up again.

I scanned thru every thread in the forum before I asked about this - I know the mods/learned elders hate repeating themselves and I don't want you to have to do it on my account. If there was no easier fix, I was just gonna blast the whole thing away as you suggested.

As always, thanks for your help