K that's a very old version. And that's perhaps where the problem is due to different type of installer. There were two types, International installer which used it's own uninstaller. And the specific language, such as english version which used the Add/Remove Control panel to install & uninstall.

1. (b) Search your computer to see if there is another LW program folder. If yes, look for an uninstaller inside. If no uninstaller, then use the Add/Remove Programs control panel to remove LW. (a) However, first, you will need to uninstall your new LW if it was installed, even in part. Go to Start menu > Programs > LW > Uninstall. Else find an uninstaller within the program folder.

2. Uninstall Java using Add/Remove Programs control panel.

3. After those steps, run this utility: Crap Cleaner.

4. Then install Java using Offline installer: Download Java software from Sun Microsystems

5. Then install LW using the Offline installer.

I have followed all th steps you have listed and still get the same error message. Can it be a problem with Vista? This would not be the first time.