Updating FD3 to fix bootloader makes no sense!

[Daniel B. Thurman]

Folks,

I am trying to get Multi-boot configurations going and
since I have not had much luck so far because grub
hangs off the MBR, I ended up doing this:

HD layout: w98se, w2000Svr, FD3, Ext(rest)

1) linux rescue
- ran grub-install /dev/hdb3, rebooted, and it still hangs

2) Restored MBR to win89
- Booted FD3 cd
- selected update
- selected grub for "install grub in parition" and not in MBR
- Installation proceeded until the very end saying in effect:
"Cannot install bootloader (grub) since no kernel is installed"
*** Say what?  THIS MAKES NO SENSE!  - So I guess you CANNOT
restore grub if you change the MBR???  cripe!

3) Tried another pathway:
- Booted FD3 cd
- selected "fresh install"
- wipe-out the FD3-parition (i.e. format)
- install everything FRESH (yet once again!!) w/ grub installed in MBR
(i.e. ./dev/hdb)
- complete installation, reboot
- back to grub hang...

So -- the whole installation is circular.

Ok...  I DID read all the FAQ, searched GOOGLE for MP-boot and
nothing I found was of help or value.  Sheesh.  Anyone have
any pointers, please?

NOTE:  I have installed MB before w/ FD2 and *somehow* I got it to work
but it was a REAL CHORE (a teeth puller experience) but I cannot recall
how to do it again!!!

Kind regards,
Dan