First, it is a fact that installing Linux on some ancient and not so ancient PCs is tough. That said, the problems are often with the specific distribution rather than being endemic. I always keep a recent Knoppix live CD on hand. If I cannot boot Knoppix on the PC (having tried the various useful boot switches available) then I assume making things work on that PC will be too hard. If I
can boot Knoppix, making it work with other recent distributions is only a matter or working out what was wrong and resolving the problem.
When asking for help, you need to develop the combination of a thick skin and a grovelling disposition. In my experience, those who are most knowledgeable are helpful, but very very busy. Most of the time, you need to rely on arseholes who have time on their hands to help, but find it more fun to make you suffer first.