Why rely on your system to boot for repairs or Reinstall when you can simply write the Win7 installation DVD to flash stick to use for Repairs or reinstallation:

Install UltraISO trial version, on File tab open DVD or ISO, on Bootable tab Write Disk Image, Format, Write.

Your best Recovery method is to save a Win7 backup image externally so that if Win7 becomes unbootable you can reimage the HD or its replacement in 20 minutes. Plus make your Recovery Disks if factory OEM so you have the macro option to revert to factory condition in case the Recovery partition doesn't run or you want to get rid of it.