I am using my own comctl32 header too. It is tiring work, but
enlightening, sometimes.

Everything works except i can't get the newer type toolbars etc winxp like, and certain other controls, but i guess you solved the problem.

The two different comctl32.dll version 6 and version 5.8 must be it.

I am using SED to program, as far as i can see there is no way of using a manifest ??? only with Visual C++ or? If there is please let me know.

screenshot of toolbar with level working and menus.
http://pararealist.pa.funpic.de/gs.html