HD Clone Problem!!!

I just created a direct copy of my failing 500GB seagate (which is 2wks old btw) with driveimage xml in bartpe. However the failing disk is already having trouble booting (freezes at different times in vista load). Now the new clone I can't even get to try to boot for some reason.... I know I got an error during the copy process, but 40% of the drive is free, so I decided to gamble with it anyway. I figured if I get corrupted or lost files on the image, I can always use Vista disk to restore the boot portion, and system files if i have to.

Is this the correct action? Or do I first simply have to relocate a partition or perhaps move the boot sector to the front??? I wouldn't see why because its a clone...should work outta the box. So I assume it has to do with corrupted bootsector. Perhaps I should use some other software to specifically rewrite certain parts on the image? Open for suggestions, but keep it simple for us average comp. enthusiasts!

p.s. want to get this done quick and painless....hence the laziness to reinstall vista.....last resort.