Windows 7: Itouch and MTP USB driver failure

Hi,
I just recently upgraded my Dell system from XP to 7 Pro (the long way via Vista). Previously my iTouch 2G would sync no problem and also show up as a mass storage device. Now that I have done the upgrade it is seen by 7 as an iPod but not as a MSD. It still syncs fine with iTunes.

Everytime I connect it to the PC it tries to load the MTP drivers and of course fails. I have searched this forum as well as about 200 Google entries to no avail. I have seen articles of it will not sync with iTunes or the device is not recognized at all but those do not fit my issue.

What I did not realize/care about was deauthorizing the device PRIOR to the final Vista to 7 upgrade. What I need to do now to download my apps, music, photos, and video libraries requires my to be able to use it as a MSD.

Has anyone ever run into this issue and found the answer buried in an obscure thread?

I appreciate any and all suggestions.