Windows Update won't load (error number 0x80072EFD)

Just got a new computer with Win XP SP3 preinstalled. I was able to update
initially and installed all critical updates. Now I am unable to get the site
to load; it "checks" forever and eventually tells me the page cannot be
viewed. I have tried various solutions presented on this NG. Firewall is off.
I have scanned numerous times for malware using NAV, Malewarebites and other
proggys. Tried remming the SoftwareDistribution folder in c:\Windows. Any
further suggestions would be much appreciated