Creating System Image Error

I have 2 computers that this problem pertains to. 1 is Dell PC and other is Vaio laptop. Both computers have a Factory image or recovery partition. I have a WD "My Book" 3 TB external hdd that I am using for the destination.
here's what happens when I go into Control Panel\Create System Image:
I select the D: My Book as Destination
In the "Confirm your backup settings window,

Backup location is D: My Book

"The following drives will be backed up" shows:

1. System Reserved (System),

2. (C System,

3. Recovery (System) or Factory Image

all of these are checked and I cannot uncheck any of them.

Windows begins making the image (backup), creates the folder "Windows Image Backup" on the external drive. It runs for about 5 minutes, then the progress bar turns completely red and I get the following Error:

"The backup failed.

One of the backup files could not be created. (0x8078002A)

Additional Information: The request could not be performed because of an I/O device error. (0x8007045D) "

I am wondering if this due to the "recovery partition" (factory image.)

If so, can I get rid of the recovery partition in Computer Management?

Any help will be greatly appreciated.



Thank you,

RC

 

Thanks for the fast reply Pete. This is the best forum I've ever used; always receive a reply to questions and more times than not within a matter of hours!
Thanks for the list also.