Dell inspiron 4100... custom kernel install

[James Gibbon]

I'm having a bit of trouble installing Debian on my inspiron 4100.  I've identified the problem.  The solution is in a kernel rebuild. I can't get the kernel to rebuild because the system freezes before the laptop can rebuild the kernel.  It doesn't usually stay alive for more than two or three minutes before it freezes up.

how can I reinstall the whole system using a custom kernel?  If anyone could give me a link that would be great.  I'm not even sure of what to google, so that would be good too.  I don't need my hand held, just let me know what I'm looking for.

James Gibbon