Can't delete files

[crypto_geek]

I am having a problem with Windows XP. Whenever I try to delete a file, I get a pop up saying that windows explorer has experienced an error and needs to close. It doesn't happen when I rename or cut a file. But whenever I try to delete a file, either from the right click menu or using the keyboard, explorer closes. When I run disk cleanup, it gets to "Checking Recycle Bin" explorer crashes. When I try anything to do with Recycle Bin, even looking at the properties, explorer crashes. Any help would be greatly appreciated.