directory storage is not responding

Hi all

it seems now that we can safely assume that directorystorage is not
working properly on this machine. Let me summarize what happened:
one instance of zope (v. 2.6.1), running fine for one year with
directorystorage (v. 1.1.7).  At a certain point ds grows up to 25Gb of
space.  While trying to export one plone site (doing a zexp) the systems
stopped responding and failed to restart.

The system actually starts without complaining, but it does never serve
any page.

I tried reinstalling zope from scratch (same version as before): the
newly installed version works with the default Data.fs, but when I try
to make it use dirstorage it does the same: hangs and looks at invisible
butterflies.

I tried removing (--purge zope*) and reinstall from debian unstable
(zope 2.6.4): default instance with Data.fs works.  I duplicate the
instance, install dirstorage (1.1.9 this time), create a dirstorage from
the previously working Data.fs, start the instance: it hangs and looks
at invisible butterflies, again.

Now, I would like to resolve the issue with a bottle of highly flamable
substance and a match on the useless piece of plastic and metal, but I
decided to give it one more chance: do you have any hint on what to do
next?

Plus, I would really like to explore the possibility to create a Data.fs
from the existing dirstorage: is there a chance this can be done?

thanks a lot
stef


-------------------------------------------------------
This SF.Net email sponsored by Black Hat Briefings & Training.
Attend Black Hat Briefings & Training, Las Vegas July 24-29 - 
digital self defense, top technical experts, no vendor pitches, 
unmatched networking opportunities. Visit www.blackhat.com