i have decided to re-instal BG because some of my files might be screwed so what class should i be?

It depends on what you like. I recomend that your character be whatever you would want to be if it was actually you in the sword coast. My character was a fighter with profiencies with the bow. I also used long swords. That is what i would use and so that's what my character uses. It makes the game funner in my opinion, even if you are weaker than you could be.

I prefer paladin cos there is no decent pally in the game and using that party you can build up a very strong, balanced party.
Paladin
Ranger (Minsc/Kivan)
Cleric (prefer Yeslick or Branwen)
Bard (make your own in multi, Garrick otherwise)
Thief (Imoen of course)
Specialist Mage (only get mages in the game as NPC's so either Drynaheir or Xan meaning that Garrick or your Bard can cast the spells they can't)
That's my opinion, others have other opinions

If you are a true powergamer, be a fighter (with a view to dual him in SoA). If not, choose a class you think you will enjoy.

You like faffing about in the shadows? Be a 'thief' (coward).
You like praying, smiting and fasting? Be a cleric.
You like strutting like a peacock and getting your ass kicked? The bard is for you.
You like wearing skirts and speaking rubbish? Be a mage [img]smile.gif[/img]

Fighter: Be the best.

A mage might be a wise choice because there are many in the game very few in fact i think only one (and she sucks) is of the alignment good. It will also be helpful so you can get good at the begining of the game because toward the end of the game mage spells become critical.
In my game i am a ranger-best choice i ever made hes loaded and hes good near and far
but like others said it all depends on what you wanwt to be
a thief/fighter is what I used to be they are alright but there are many thiefs in the game and you cannot have armor on to thief, well at least not good armour

thx for the help i have a few game going right now with a hafling fighter/thief and a hafling fighter

A thief/fighter can where drizzts armor and still do all of his thieving abilities. Just thought I would mention that.

Except Stealth.

Surely including stealth (source: PH)?

Pick pockets - -20%
Open locks - -5%
Find/Remove Traps - -10%
Hide in Shadows - -10%

I take it PH stands for Player's Handbook, and you're quoting the stats for Elven Chainmail? Regardless, I should point out here that Drizzt's mail is NOT Elven Chainmail. Elven mail allows all Thief skills to be used (albeit with some penalties on everything except Set Traps and Detect Illusions), and it also allows Fighter/Mages and Cleric/Mages to cast Wizard spells. Elven Mail can also be worn by a straight Thief. Drizzt's mail has NONE of these properties. It has a good AC, and will let you Disarm Traps, Pick Pockets, and Open Locks. That's it.