Cannot Restore MS Backup File

Hello,

Some time ago I decided to back up all my data to my slave backup hardrive
using MS Backup (XP Pro) and format my principal HD and install a fresh copy
of Windows XP Pro. I didn't use compression nor password, just felt it would
be easier for me to backup my files and folders. Well, after re-installing
Win XP and accessing my backup HD I now select the backup file (which it's
about 5GB in
size) and I simple cannot restore my data... it looks EMPTY but with its
original huge size!
There are no error messages. When I select the checkbox it simple shows me
the sandglass and no directory tree components are displayed - only the main
root. I did a small backup and noticed that the shadow mode is the default
one and I may had created my big backup this way. Would there any
implication regarding shadow backups and no longer having the original data
on my main HD? If so, how can I re-build this file's directory tree? It
should contain data because of its huge size. How can I have my data back?
Anyone had experienced the same? HELP!!!

Gilberto