Can't install updates after failed update

[marshall99]

Hi all,

Running Win 7 Home Premium (SP1) 64 bit.
I always downloaded and installed the Windows updates for my computer without problems. However, a few days ago, after I downloaded and installed 14 updates, my Windows Explorer started to act very odd: for example, I was not able to copy / paste the files using right click. Immediately, I used the restore point created before the updates => the Windows Explorer issue was solved and the computer seemed to return to normal.
But now, although the Windows Update screen shows the 14 updates as downloaded, when I click on "Install", the green indicator goes left and right for hours, but the installation doesn't happen.
I looked for solution online and I tried the following resources without success:

- FixIt tool: it gets stuck in the "Checking for Updates" screen.

- Run Malwarebytes, Lavasoft, Spybot: all clear.

- http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/windows_7-update/cant-update-windows-7-win7-64bit/58c0f659-6959-443d-a92b-56f98a48c206?auth=1 => I tried to apply the "Most Helpful Reply" (by miluethi) =>
1. Run services.msc
2. Stop service Windows-Update
3. Delete folder content of C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\
4. Start service Windows-Update again
5. Run Windows Update
I was not able to Stop the Windows Update service (I got the 1053 error)

- Run registry cleanup.

- Tried all the processes disabling Norton.

I will appreciate any help.
Thank you in advance,

Marsh

 

[Tbonius]

You need to let it run over night, sometimes it takes a very long time.

 

[marshall99]

You need to let it run over night, sometimes it takes a very long time.

I did for days... no luck.
Thanks!

Marsh

 

[Tbonius]

This is a common problem that is a real pain in the butt. Check to see if the folder C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\ has repopulated, if so, that means it's trying. This time just delete the contents of the Download folder in that folder. If you are not already(I don't), try using "Install updates automatically(recommended)". If you are worried about it installing win10, Microsoft, today, changed the update so it will not automatically install, and you can go back and remove the update. It still may take awhile.

 

[marshall99]

This is a common problem that is a real pain in the butt. Check to see if the folder C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\ has repopulated, if so, that means it's trying. This time just delete the contents of the Download folder in that folder. If you are not already(I don't), try using "Install updates automatically(recommended)". If you are worried about it installing win10, Microsoft, today, changed the update so it will not automatically install, and you can go back and remove the update. It still may take awhile.

Thank you for your answer.

Yesterday, suddenly, it downloaded and installed the updates, however, the issue with the Windows Explorer started again, so I reverted the updates.
Not sure what to do now...
BTW, nope I don't use automatic settings for Windows. Too dangerous

Marsh