i got it installed in text mode, then at first boot, i get the dreaded black screen of death.
do xorgconfig, add 24bit modes for 1600x1200, and i think i managed to hose the keyboard in the process.
now i can see the beautiful new login screen @ 1600x1200 - but i cant type anything to log in
i cant even ctrl/alt/f1 to get to the console window. i dont have a usb keyboard around to plug into it either. (damn ps2 oldness.)
basically, am i going to have to put the dvd back in and do a repair?
edit: i discovered that i DO have a ps2 port! however, it didnt help. got into bios with the spare keyboard, but i still cant do anything with it once the kernel initalizes.
looks like a repair session. meh.
edit #2: reinstalled from dvd
did xorgconfig again
relevant settings - added 1600x1200 24bit mode
dell 101 keyboard
hor 30-100
vert 60
rebooted, and it works!
now to get my wireless working.

